Addressing a packed auditorium at the newly renovated Museum of the Moving Image in Astoria, New York, State Assemblywoman Aravella Simotas, Congresswoman Carolyn B. Maloney and State Senator Michael N. Gianaris vowed to work towards restoring faith in government, bolstering the economy, and addressing lingering social inequalities. The remarks were delivered at the joint inauguration ceremony.

Simotas and Nicole Malliotakis (R-East Shore/Brooklyn) are the first Greek American women elected to office in the state. While acknowledging the significant challenges facing New York and the skepticism towards state government among its residents, Simotas cited her Greek immigrant parents’ hard work and sacrifice and Astoria’s rich civic and cultural heritage as her inspiration for entering public service. “For me, serving our community is a natural calling and fighting for this district is a privilege,” she told the audience. “While it’s true that politics is too often driven by bitter partisanship and gridlock, I still believe that government can work for working people again.”

Simotas, who invoked the New York State motto of “Excelsior”—meaning “ever upward”—will immediately have the opportunity to build on her vision of a more effective and accountable government. Assigned to the Energy, Judiciary, Small Business, Banks, and Consumer Affairs and Protection Committees, she will draw on her experience as an attorney and her background in economics as she confronts issues vital to both her district and New York as a whole.

“Serving on the Energy Committee will allow me to lend my voice towards protecting the interests of western Queens, which provides 60 percent of New York City’s power,” Simotas said. “I’m also looking forward to using my other assignments to work on revitalizing our state’s economy and ensuring that our legal system protects working people.”

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