Mayor Eric Adams took a poignant step back in time to reflect on the monumental impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, marking the somber fifth anniversary of the first confirmed death in the five boroughs of New York City. In a heartfelt gesture, he visited NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst to pay homage to the city’s healthcare workers, first responders, essential workers, and the 46,000 New Yorkers who tragically lost their lives during the height of the pandemic.
The Setting: NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst, Elmhurst.
Date: Friday, March 14, 2025.
Mayor Adams, in a touching tribute, announced that City Hall and several other municipal buildings would be illuminated in amber on Friday night to honor the memory of those lost and the unwavering dedication of first responders and essential workers who tirelessly served throughout the crisis. The amber glow of these iconic buildings served as a beacon of remembrance and gratitude for the sacrifices made during the city’s darkest days.
The Epicenter: NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst.
Mayor Adams acknowledged the pivotal role of NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst, which stood at the epicenter of the pandemic in New York City, a city that emerged as the global epicenter of COVID-19. With over three million diagnosed cases, 240,000 hospitalizations, and 46,000 deaths, the city bore the brunt of the devastating toll of the virus.
In a poignant address, Mayor Adams lauded the “healthcare heroes” who courageously stepped forward to confront an unprecedented crisis, battling an invisible enemy with unwavering resolve and compassion.
A Promise of Remembrance:
Mayor Adams made a solemn vow to ensure that the memory of those lost during the pandemic would be eternally honored on every COVID-19 Remembrance Day in the years to come. His poignant words resonated with the pain and resilience of a city that had come together in solidarity to weather the storm of a generation.
Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams-Isom echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the importance of honoring the lives lost and recognizing the invaluable contributions of frontline workers. The decision to bathe City Hall and other municipal buildings in amber light served as a poignant reminder to cherish the moments spent with loved ones and to never take life for granted.
A Beacon of Hope: NYC Health + Hospitals President and CEO Dr. Mitchell Katz.
Dr. Katz underscored the vital role of a robust public health system in safeguarding the collective well-being of the city. He emphasized the need for community engagement and trust as the cornerstones of a resilient health infrastructure that could effectively navigate any future challenges.
Reflecting on the resilience of New Yorkers and the spirit of unity that defined the city’s response to the crisis, Dr. Katz highlighted the enduring strength and fortitude that had emerged from the crucible of adversity.
A Testament to Resilience:
New York City Public Schools Chancellor Melissa Aviles-Ramos shared how public schools had transformed into essential hubs of support and resources for communities of all ages during the pandemic. From distributing meals to ensuring access to critical personal protective equipment, the dedication of school staff had been unwavering in the face of unprecedented challenges.
As New Yorkers rallied together to combat the spread of the virus, city agencies displayed unparalleled coordination and resolve to protect the health and safety of the population. The closure of schools and transition to remote learning, along with the innovative pivot to outdoor dining by restaurants, exemplified the city’s adaptability and collective strength in the face of adversity.
A Glimmer of Hope: Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) Data.
The data from the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) painted a hopeful picture of progress, with 7.1 million New Yorkers receiving at least one dose of the vaccine, representing a remarkable 91% of the city’s population. The widespread vaccination efforts were estimated to have averted tens of thousands of deaths, hundreds of thousands of hospitalizations, and millions of COVID-19 cases, underscoring the transformative impact of vaccination campaigns on public health outcomes.
As the city paused to reflect on the profound losses and triumphs of the past five years, Mayor Eric Adams’ poignant tribute served as a poignant reminder of the resilience, unity, and compassion that had defined New York City’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Through remembrance, gratitude, and solidarity, the city stood united in honoring the memories of those lost and celebrating the indomitable spirit of its residents.
