New York Mayor Mike Bloomberg was the first politician to champion my aspiration of rowing across the Atlantic Ocean, offering his encouragement from City Hall. His steadfast support remained unwavering throughout the years. Thanks to his efforts, our event at the African Burial Ground and the wreath-laying ceremony in the Hudson River received meaningful backing. 

In a poignant gathering at Brooklyn Bridge Park, he paid tribute to the late Vice Admiral Samuel L. Gravely, Jr., celebrated as the first African American officer commissioned in the United States Navy.