Story #41: Mayor Carmen Yulin Cruz on Embracing Calls of Service

“But I guarantee one thing: You will have to answer that call of service question. The question is: What are we prepared to do to change the world we live in?” - Mayor Carmen Yulin Cruz

On October 26th, 2018, PBHA honored Carmen Yulín Cruz, Mayor of San Juan, Puerto Rico, with the 12th Annual Robert Coles "Call of Service" Award for her advocacy on behalf of women’s, immigrant, LGBTQ, Deaf, and labor rights, as well as Puerto Rican self-determination, particularly in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria. During her lecture, Mayor Cruz emotionally reflected on the political decisions she faced to save lives following the hurricanes, condemned the federal government's neglect of Puerto Ricans, and urged the audience of over 500 to embrace their own calls to service. Her visit also included meaningful engagements with community leaders, students, and a tour of significant sites in Boston, culminating in a powerful message about resilience and activism.

Check out a recap of this powerful lecture here and enjoy the full recording here.