Percy Sutton was an institution, a giant in both New York City and on the national stage.  For so many people of his generation and for generations after, he represents all that is possible with hard work and willpower, and Mr. Percy Sutton possessed both in abundance.  One of 15 children, the struggles of his life - namely the fight for equal rights - changed the very fabric of our culture and our society. His impact on American life cannot be overstated.

As the Manhattan Borough President, it is an honor to serve where he once served. He set the standard of what the office should stand for and what it can accomplish. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and to the countless others whose lives he touched. 

We lost a giant today.  But we are all better off for having known the life and work of Percy Sutton.