White Plains, NY — On Tuesday, the Westchester County Board of Legislators hosted its annual Caribbean-American Heritage Celebration, honoring Clinton Boxhill, Sr., Director of Adventist Community Services and Disaster Response for the First Seventh-day Adventist Church of White Plains, and Henry Solly, President of All Islands Association.

Chair Vedat Gashi (D – New Castle, Somers, Yorktown) opened the ceremony saying, “There is no such thing as a single Caribbean-American identity. So many different ethnic and cultural influences shaped the Caribbean nations. These influences are reflected in those who have made the journey across borders and generations to become Caribbean-Americans, thereby enriching our culture here in Westchester County.”

“Tonight we have the pleasure of honoring two former Jamaicans who have each dedicated much time and effort to uplifting those in need in their communities.”

Legislator Jewel Williams Johnson (D – Elmsford, Greenburgh, Sleepy Hollow, Tarrytown) presented the proclamation to Mr. Boxhill, first noting the many wonderful contributions of his native Jamaica before lauding his accomplishments as Director of the food bank, and coordinator of activities and resources for his church congregants.

Legislator Williams Johnson was reflective and said “My maternal grandfather was from St. Kitts. He was an entrepreneur who worked very hard to ensure his business was a success and he always gave back to both his community in Harlem and his country. He always supported his country, so much so, that he was knighted by the Queen of England! As a fellow West Indian, I am extremely proud of your achievements, Mr. Boxhill. Your hard work, dedication, and commitment to community initiatives are truly commendable.”

She also said, “I think it is safe to say Mr. Boxhill has taken the words of another clergyman we all know of who has passed on … he’s literally taken his words to heart and then some. Archbishop Desmond Tutu was known to say, ‘Do your little bit of good where you are; it’s those little bits of good, put together, that overwhelm the world.’”

She concluded by stating, “On behalf of myself and Legislator David Tubiolo and the entire Board of Legislators, we thank you for overwhelming us here in the County of Westchester.”

Mr. Boxhill expressed his heartfelt thanks to Legislator Williams Johnson and the entire Board, saying, “Our food bank operates under the umbrella of the Adventist Community Services and Disaster Response of our World Church. We look forward to continuing our partnership with you, as we work to impact lives in our communities.”

“To all my volunteers at First White Plains, this recognition is all about you. This award is for all of you as it is for me. There would be no food bank without you and you are truly appreciated. Whether it is a hundred degrees or freezing temperatures, you are there serving the community.”

The Board declared June 23, 2023 “Clinton Boxhill, Sr. Day” in Westchester County.

Legislator Tyrae Woodson-Samuels (D – Mount Vernon) presented the second proclamation saying, “In the Board’s celebration of Caribbean-American Heritage Month, I had the opportunity to honor the very deserving Henry Solly. Henry is a man who gets things done in Mount Vernon. He is a successful entrepreneur who owns a thriving automotive shop. Henry is also someone who remembers where he came from, and as President of the All Islands Association, he is dedicated to helping his fellow Caribbean-Americans succeed.”

“The mission of AIA is the education of youth. The association focuses on providing and promoting programs, like tutoring and scholarships, for the next generation. AIA renders assistance wherever it is needed, promotes cultural activities, and works with other organizations to improve the overall welfare of the community.”

Mr. Solly accepted the honor with these words, “I am grateful for your recognition of my work within the Caribbean community through the All Islands Association, and as a local small-business owner. I want to express my deep appreciation for this tremendous honor. The Caribbean community's heritage, culture, and resilience have inspired me, and it is a privilege to contribute to its growth and empowerment through the All Islands Association.”

“As we celebrate Caribbean-Heritage Month, let us recognize the remarkable contributions of Caribbean individuals across various fields. Our community is a tapestry of talent, resilience, and innovation, and I am proud to be a part of it.”

The Board declared June 24, 2023 “Henry Solly Day” in Westchester County.

Watch the video presentation here https://vimeo.com/837970153

Read the program for Tuesday night’s event at: https://www.westchesterlegislators.com/images/Newsroom/2023/2023-caribbean-heritage-program.pdf