Rice Re-Elected as Chairman of the NJ Legislative Black Caucus

TRENTON – The New Jersey Legislative Black Caucus recently held its reorganization meeting to discuss new business and elect officers.  Caucus Chairman Senator Ronald L. Rice, D-Essex, released the following statement regarding the meeting:

            “On behalf of the leadership of the New Jersey Legislative Black Caucus, I want to thank the members for their votes of confidence and support.  During this session, as with the last legislative session, we are vowing to maintain our commitment to our members and to the residents of New Jersey.            

“When we first took the oath of office as legislators, we made a commitment that we would do all we can to strengthen the Caucus as an organization in terms of our unity, because we recognize that our power lies in our unity.  Our goal is to bring the issues and concerns of our constituents to the table.             

 “As we continue to enhance our collaborations by working with our brother and sister civil rights organizations like the State NAACP, the NJ Black Issues Convention, the Coalition of Black Labor Leaders, the A. Phillip Randolph Institute, the many clergy organizations and other civil rights groups, we are hopeful that we will be able to make a difference in the lives of all New Jerseyans by increasing their quality of life.  We must also make certain that we protect their human and civil rights.           

“This term as Chair, I will encourage and expect the Caucus’ sub-committees to be more active within our communities by working with organizations and businesses to address policy issues that are important to all New Jerseyans.           

“There is still much work to be done – in fact, our job is just beginning.”

             The majority of the Caucus’ leadership was re-elected from last session.  Senator Shirley K. Turner, D-Mercer, and Assemblyman Jerry Green, D-Plainfield are returning as the Caucus’ Vice-Chairs.  Assemblyman Herb Conaway, D-Delran is returning as the Caucus Treasurer, and newcomer Assemblywoman Elease Evans, D-Paterson, will be the new Recording Secretary, occupying the role previously held by former Assemblyman Craig Stanley. #