Susan Cacace with Michael Sabatino
As Pride Month kicks off, Judge Susan Cacace, the Democratic Party’s endorsed candidate for Westchester DA, announced that she will appoint Michael Sabatino to her Bias and Hate Crimes Advisory Board if elected. The Advisory Board will help guide the Hate Crimes Unit created by current DA Mimi Rocah.
Sabatino is a pioneering figure in the LGBTQ+ community. He played a crucial role in the fight for marriage equality in New York State, participating in a significant gay marriage lawsuit that reached the State Court of Appeals. His activism significantly contributed to the eventual legalization of same sex marriage in the U.S.
“With hate crimes and incidents on the rise, it’s important that representatives from marginalized communities have a seat at the table so that their voices are heard,” said Cacace. “I have known and respected Michael for more than a decade. He is a dedicated advocate for the LGBTQ+ community and will make sure that their voices are heard.”
“It’s important that Westchester County is a place where everyone feels safe and respected,” said Sabatino. “Serving on this Advisory Board would be an opportunity to make a difference in the fight against hate and ensure that our justice system responds to the needs and concerns of those in the LGBTQ+ community.”
Sabatino is a former member of the Yonkers City Council who was the city’s first openly gay elected official. He currently works for the city of Yonkers, where he resides with his husband. Cacace is a former prosecutor and County Court Judge who oversaw sex crimes cases for 14 years before stepping down to run for DA.
