(Last Chance)Urgent Request for Clergy Participation in Albany Issues Day
($250 Stipend)- March 10, 2026 Free Bus leaving from Bronx (597 139th St 6:15 AM) and Brooklyn (Barclay Center 5:30 AM) Lunch Provided.
Subject: Last-Minute Request for Ministers to Travel to Albany on March 10, 2026
Dear Esteemed Clergy,
I hope this message finds you well. Thank you for signing the clergy letter on this very important issue. On behalf of Rev. Robert M. Waterman, myself and The People First Transportation Alliance, I am reaching out with an urgent request for your participation in a critical advocacy effort in Albany that requires immediate attention on Tuesday, March 10, 2026. We have an opportunity for ten clergy (first come first serve). Transportation will be provided from Brooklyn and the Bronx. There are also a modest stipend and a follow up lunch meeting at one of Brooklyn best seafood restaurants, The Crabby Shack. (Home) on Friday.Time-Sensitive Opportunity
We are making a last-minute request for clergy members to join us in Albany for Issues Day on Tuesday, March 10, 2026 – tomorrow. Your voice and presence would significantly strengthen our advocacy efforts on legislation that directly impacts the livelihoods of tens of thousands of New Yorkers.Event Details Albany Issues Day – March 10, 2026
• Date: Tuesday, March 10, 2026
• Location: Albany, New York
• Purpose: Advocating for legislation requiring human drivers in every vehicle
• Transportation: Fully provided by The People First Transportation Alliance (3_10-NYCC-Albany-day-bus-flyer_SN0326 (3).pdf)
• Stipend: Stipend of $250
• Leadership: You will join Dr. Robert M. Waterman and our advocacy teamFollow-Up Meeting – March 13, 2026
• Date: Friday, March 13, 2026
• Location: Crabby Shack Restaurant, 613 Franklin Ave, Brooklyn (Home)
• Purpose: Lunch meeting to discuss outcomes and next steps
• Meal: Lunch providedThe Critical Issue
We are advocating for legislation that requires a human driver in every vehicle as the rise of driverless cars poses significant risks and threatens the employment of tens of thousands of New Yorkers. Our position is clear: skilled human drivers should be prioritized over automated systems that cannot be held accountable for their actions.
This legislation is not just about technology policy, it’s about:
Protecting Jobs: Preserving employment opportunities for professional drivers across New York
Ensuring Safety: Maintaining human oversight and accountability in transportation
Supporting Families: Safeguarding the livelihoods of working families who depend on driving professions.Why Your Participation Matters
Your participation as clergy leaders brings moral authority and community voice to this critical issue. The presence of faith leaders demonstrates that this is not merely a policy debate, but a matter of social justice and community welfare.
Your involvement would:
• Strengthen our message with moral and ethical dimensions.
• Bring attention to the human impact of transportation policies.
• Demonstrate broad community support for responsible legislation.
• Provide a powerful voice for working families in your congregations!Logistics and Support
Transportation Arrangements:
• All transportation to and from Albany will be provided.
• Departure and return times will be coordinated for your convenience.
• No travel expenses or arrangements needed on your part.
Financial Support:
• Stipend provided to compensate for your time and participation.
Time Commitment:
• Tuesday, March 10: Full day in Albany (departure and return same day)
• Friday, March 13: Lunch meeting in Brooklyn (approximately 2-3 hours)Immediate Response Required
Given the urgent nature of this request, we need your response immediately. Please respond via text message to Rev. Dr. Robert M. Waterman 914.715.2202 or Rev. Conrad B. Tillard Sr. 347.586.6678 to confirm your availability and participation.
Response Information Needed:
• Confirmation of availability for March 10, 2026
• Confirmation of availability for March 13, 2026, lunch meeting
• Any special transportation or accommodation needs
• Preferred contact method for coordination detailsContact Information
Text Message Response: 914.715.2202 (Waterman), Text Message Response: 347.586.6678 (Tillard)Closing
We understand this is extremely short notice, but the urgency of the legislative timeline requires immediate action. Your voice has been invaluable in our previous efforts, and we believe your continued participation could make the difference in this critical advocacy moment.
The families and workers whose livelihoods depend on driving professions are counting on leaders like you to stand with them. We hope you can join us in Albany tomorrow to make their voices heard in the halls of government.
Thank you for considering this urgent request. We look forward to your immediate response and hope to see you in Albany.
Time is of the essence—please respond by Monday morning.
Sincerely,
Rev. Conrad B. Tillard Sr. M.Div., Th.M.
347.386.6678 tillardconrad@gamil.com
Rev. Conrad B. Tillard Sr., M.Div., Th.M., ABD
Senior Pastor
The Congregational Church of South Hempstead
The Congregational Church of South Hempstead
347-586-6678