New York Governor Kathy Hochul Faces Backlash Over Controversial Comment About Black Children in the Bronx

New York Governor Kathy Hochul is facing backlash after making a controversial comment about Black children in the Bronx, sparking outrage from local lawmakers and community members.

During a speech at the Milken Institute Global Conference in California, Hochul stated, “Right now we have, you know, young Black kids growing up in the Bronx who don’t even know what the word ‘computer’ is. They don’t know, they don’t know these things.” Her remarks were met with swift criticism from New York Assembly Members Amanda Septimo and Karines Reyes, who represent parts of the Bronx.

Septimo called the governor’s comments “harmful, deeply misinformed and genuinely appalling,” while Reyes urged Hochul to “do better” and recognize the intelligence and potential of Bronx children.

Despite the backlash, civil rights leader Al Sharpton defended Hochul, arguing that her comments were not intentionally racist and highlighting the lack of access to technology in marginalized communities.

In response to the criticism, Governor Hochul issued an apology, stating, “I misspoke and I regret it.” She clarified that Black children in the Bronx are indeed aware of computers but often lack access to the necessary technology for high-paying jobs in industries like artificial intelligence.

The incident has sparked a conversation about racial disparities in access to technology and opportunities for marginalized communities in New York City, prompting calls for greater investment in education and resources for underserved youth.