Contact: Sunny Mindel/ Edward Skyler (212) 788-2958
The next bill before me, Introductory Number 518, sponsored by Council Members Boyland, O'Donovan, Robinson and Abel, would add, through the posting of an additional sign, the name "Michael Griffith Street" to Pacific Street between Albany and Ralph Avenues, in Brooklyn.
Michael Griffith was born in Trinidad-Tobago on March 2, 1963. He attended Rose Roman Catholic School in Trinidad before coming to the United States at the age of ten. In New York City, Michael attended public school, became a construction worker and was active in the community.
On the night of December 20, 1986, Michael Griffith, along with three friends, drove to a construction site to pick up their paychecks. On the way back to Brooklyn, their car broke down on Cross Bay Boulevard near a pizzeria, which they then entered to eat. When the three men left the eatery, an angry crowd, armed with baseball bats confronted them and chased them toward Shore Parkway where Michael Griffith was hit by a car and killed instantly. He was 23 years old.
In view of the tragic death of Michael Griffith, in a hate related assault, it is fitting that Pacific Street, between Albany Avenue and Ralph Avenue, be renamed "Michael Griffith Street."
For the reasons previously stated, I will now sign the bill.