Annabel Palma: Should Immediately Resign

Joint Statement from City Council Member Annabel Palma:
State Senator Hiram Monserrate should immediately resign from the New York State Senate. Despite having worked with him in the New York City Council, the recent verdict in his case compels us to take a stand and demand accountability. The bottom line is that Monserrate was found guilty, and his ability to serve his constituents as an elected official has been severely diminished.

We are both familiar with domestic violence and the cycle of damage it causes. Lives are destroyed and futures are damaged; tragically, women and children suffer the harshest effects of this violent cycle. Our justice system has a long way to go in defending and safeguarding women against violent abusers but we cannot remain silent anytime a woman is victimized. In this case, we are particularly compelled because the abuser is one who has been entrusted with the public's confidence. Hiram has broken the public’s trust and it is our hope that he will now demonstrate leadership by stepping down from his position. Remaining in office would be a disservice to his district and his constituents.

Read more: http://www.nydailynews.com/blogs/dailypolitics/2009/10/two-latinas-hiram-must-go.html#ixzz0UV5CWNTd