Ritchie Torres: “I rise to honor a true daughter of the Bronx, a leader whose life has lifted generations: Shirley Fearon. Born and…”

“I rise to honor a true daughter of the Bronx, a leader whose life has lifted generations: Shirley Fearon. Born and raised right here in our borough, Shirley embodies the heart and resilience of the northeast Bronx. A lifelong educator, she dedicated her career to our children, teaching in general and special education, believing deeply that every young person deserves the chance to succeed. Her passion for learning didn't stop at the classroom door. It spread throughout our neighborhoods, inspiring countless lives. Shirley's commitment to service runs deep. As president of her NAACP chapter, a dedicated district leader for the 83rd Assembly District, and a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, she has championed justice, empowerment, and civic engagement for decades. Perhaps her most transformative legacy is the state-of-the-art Northeast Bronx YMCA, a facility she fought for tirelessly over many years as the co-chair of the Northeast Bronx Community Coalition. When it opened in 2021, it became a vital beacon, a place for youth programs, fitness, community gatherings, and hope. After 70 years without such a resource in her neighborhood, Shirley helped make it a reality.”