Erase Racism benefit celebrates change-makers

Erase Racism, an esteemed organization dedicated to combating racial injustice, held its annual benefit on June 14, recognizing individuals and organizations making a significant difference on Long Island. This year’s honorees included Benjamin L. Crump, Bethpage Federal Credit Union, and Martine Hackett, all of whom were selected through a meticulous process involving Erase Racism’s partners and supporters.

Among those who admire Erase Racism’s mission and values is volunteer Wilma Tootle, who passionately shared that the organization’s goals create a positive impact on the community and strive to effect meaningful change in the world.

“It’s an organization that fights and uplifts, all forms of racial discrimination,” Tootle said. “They are chief advocates. For the laws and principles procedures, this is the organization that goes all out to see that that becomes a reality in our community and the world.”

This year marked a special milestone as it was the first time the Benefit was organized under the leadership of the current president of Erase Racism, Laura Harding.

Highlighting the significance of the event, Harding described the Benefit as the organization’s largest fundraising occasion, an opportunity not only to honor individuals making strides in racial and social justice but also to provide a moment of celebration and rejuvenation for supporters in the community. Recognizing the tireless efforts of honorees and their vital contributions is an integral part of Erase Racism’s commitment to raising awareness and fostering change.

“I and the rest of the organization are extremely honored, for the honorees,” Harding said. We are a small but mighty organization. They speak to not only the current day situation where we are but a province of more racially and socially just America, the future of where we need to go.”

Among the distinguished awardees, Crump stood out for his relentless pursuit of civil rights cases, becoming a powerful voice for the country’s needs. Having secured multiple settlements and advocated for families facing injustices, Crump’s leadership and influence have earned him widespread recognition.

Bethpage Federal Credit Union was honored for its strong partnership with Erase Racism, working closely with communities of color and marginalized groups to ensure equitable access to banking services. Their dedication to fostering financial inclusion and empowerment has made a profound impact.

Martine Hackett received the inaugural award as an unsung hero, lauded for her vital contributions to maternal child health, suburban health equity, and the intersection of health and housing. Erase Racism’s acknowledgment of Hackett’s work in raising awareness for infant mortality, particularly in the Black community, exemplifies their commitment to recognizing often overlooked advocates.

“It was surreal, to be honest, because the award is named after Elaine Gross who last year retired as the President and Director of race racism,” Hackett Said. “And so she’s the one that kind of did the introduction, you know, hearing her sort of talk about me in that way, was really kind of wild because first of all, I had to realize that oh, that I actually did those things that she was talking about, but to just be, you know, acknowledged that, you know, that people are like I said, that people are noticing what I what I’m doing and that it matters. It was significant.”

For those seeking more information about Erase Racism and its efforts to combat racial injustice, visit their website at eraseracismny.org.