NYC Department of Correction

Our celebration of #HispanicHeritageMonth continues today with Officer Remedios sharing why his heritage is important to him. Remedios, a six-year member of service who is of Cuban and Costa Rican descent, also noted that working for #NYCDOC has helped him encourage others to pursue a career in public safety, as well. “Working in law enforcement has been so fulfilling in my life. It gives me a chance to make a difference not only in my family, but in the lives of others as well. This career allows me to be an example for the world,” he added. #JoinTheBoldest

#NYCDOC is continuing to incorporate prayer, staff camaraderie, inclusive initiatives and many other unifying efforts into its workplace. Most recently, on Sept. 30, the Department’s Correction Assistance Response for Employees (CARE) Unit hosted an Interfaith Prayer Breakfast on #RikersIsland to help provide a day of hope and healing to staff members and special guests. During the breakfast, religious leaders from different faiths across #NYC prayed for the safety and well-being of the Department’s emergency responders and support staff as they work diligently together each day to help persons in custody. Special guest speakers included Episcopal Diocese of New York Bishop Co-Adjutor Reverend Matthew Heyd and #NYPD Inspector Chaplain Dr. Barbara Harris-Williams. In addition, the special gathering enabled members to have important conversations with Executive Leadership about plans for continued success, support and innovation throughout the Department. View more photos at bit.ly/47Z8QFJ.

In honor of National #GermanAmericanHeritageMonth, #NYCDOC celebrates the culture, contributions and achievements of the German community.

This past Tuesday, DOC Officer Antoine stood in solidarity with dozens of women on #GoodMorningAmerica in #TimesSquare to raise awareness about breast cancer. The special programming also recognized the resiliency of those women and men battling breast cancer, as well as survivors of the disease. At the age of 35, Antoine was diagnosed with breast cancer and underwent both a bilateral mastectomy and chemotherapy for treatment. She is now 15 years cancer free and continues to participate in initiatives that support breast cancer prevention. "Timely detection is crucial for survival. It certainly saved my life. As a tenured Officer, it is important for us to regularly undergo check-ups. While Black women have a lower incidence of cancer, we have a higher risk of mortality from it. Research indicates that Black women tend to receive mammograms at lower-grade facilities, face delays in detecting abnormalities, and experience delays in beginning and completing treatment. Screening for breast cancer can be life-saving. I urge all my loved ones, friends, and colleagues to also get screened,” said Antoine, a 20-year #DOC veteran. Antoine is also continuing her efforts to encourage the community to get involved by once again leading the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk in #ConeyIsland on Oct. 27. The walk, which has been held annually for more than 15 years, honors those who have died from breast cancer, celebrates survivors, raises awareness about finding a cure and more. #BreastCancerAwarenessMonth #FlashbackFriday

To help promote health and wellness, as well as provide positive interactive programming for persons in custody, the North Infirmary Command (NIC) on #RikersIsland hosted its first-ever Silver Sneaker Olympics on Sept. 16 and 17.     The two-day outdoor program featured low impact activities for individuals in custody who are 50 or older and for those in custody who have physical disabilities.     The facility’s population includes individuals with acute medical conditions that require infirmary care and those who have a disability that requires housing that is compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).     Thanks to the efforts of DOC’s Division of Programs and Community Partnerships and Health Affairs Unit, the initiative was a success. #FlashbackFriday

Throughout the month of October, #DOC joins the country in recognizing the culture, achievements and contributions of Italian Americans. In celebration of this special time of the year, members of the #NYCDColumbiaAssociation and many others will also march in the upcoming 80th Annual #ColumbusDayParade in #Manhattan on Oct. 14. See you there!

Share this news! #NYCDOC is hiring for a Director of Language Access Services. City Employees: Visit nyc.gov/ess and search for Job ID# 640079. All Other Applicants: Visit on.nyc.gov/4dkHOdY.

Happy Jewish New Year! #NYCDOC wishes everyone celebrating a joyous, healthy and prosperous year ahead. #RoshHashanah

#NYCDOC Officer Rodriguez-Arvelo helps us continue our celebration of #HispanicHeritageMonth by sharing why this time of year is important to her. “My passion for my heritage led me to a career in law enforcement, where I’ve proudly served since 2018. Being in this field allows me not only to protect and serve, but also pave the way for others who aspire to make a difference,” she explained. “It’s incredibly fulfilling to know that my work is helping to inspire future generations, particularly from underrepresented communities, to take on leadership roles and contribute to a better society.”

#NYCDOC stands united in raising awareness about breast cancer and the importance of early detection. 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime. Routine screenings can help health care providers find breast cancer early, when it is easier to treat. Most insurance plans cover cancer preventive services, like mammograms, without a copay. #BreastCancerAwarenessMonth