Lawmakers in Albany are making strides to honor the sacrifice of sanitation workers who played a vital role in the aftermath of the 9/11 tragedy. A proposed piece of legislation known as the Ignazio Giacalone Act aims to extend certain benefits to the families of these workers, paralleling the support already available to the loved ones of first responders who have succumbed to illnesses related to their heroic efforts.
The bill is named after Ignazio Giacalone, a dedicated sanitation worker who passed away in 2021 after battling cancer linked to his service at Ground Zero. This act seeks to provide additional civil service exam credits for the children and siblings of sanitation workers who have died from 9/11-related illnesses, putting them on a similar footing as the families of firefighters and police officers.
Michael Giacalone, the son of Ignazio, expressed his appreciation for the support being offered to families like his. “They gave the city everything. And finally, at least they’re getting some type of support. It’s nice,” he stated, reflecting on the importance of recognizing their sacrifices.
Since the cleanup efforts began after the September 11 attacks, over 100 sanitation department workers have tragically lost their lives due to cancer associated with their work at the site of the fallen towers. The fight against the effects of this environmental catastrophe continues as more families grapple with the aftermath of this domestic tragedy.
Michael is eager to follow in his father’s footsteps by joining the sanitation department himself. He is currently on a waiting list and is preparing to undergo the necessary steps to start his career. However, he noted that the additional credits provided by the new legislation might have allowed him to secure a position sooner.
“I’m grateful for the [Sanitation] department. They’ve helped out tremendously,” said Michael, illustrating the lasting impact his father’s legacy has had on his own ambitions.
Edward Panzarella, a former supervisor in the sanitation department, has been instrumental in advocating for this bill. His efforts highlight the ongoing recognition that these workers deserve for their service to the city during a time of immense need.
New York Assemblyman Sam Berger, a sponsor of the bill, emphasized its significance. “This bill honors the legacy of sanitation workers like Ignazio who put their lives on the line for New York. But more, this bill’s passage is a statement from New York State that we see you, we thank you, and we will never forget your heroism and your sacrifice.”
Recently, the Assembly passed the bill with unanimous support, and it now awaits approval from the state Senate before it can be sent to Governor Kathy Hochul for final approval. State Senator Robert Jackson is carrying the bill through the Senate, a critical step in ensuring that the efforts of sanitation workers are duly recognized.
The initiative has also garnered support from various city lawmakers. Councilwoman Vickie Paladino pointed out the often-overlooked contributions of these workers. “New York’s Strongest lost over 130 people due to 9/11-related illnesses, yet we seldom hear about their contributions. It’s time that we honor them the same way we honor the First Responders who were there getting the city back on its feet in the aftermath,” she remarked.
This proposed legislation is more than just a bill; it represents a collective acknowledgment of the sacrifices made by sanitation workers who dedicated themselves to the Herculean task of cleaning up in the wake of a national tragedy. It seeks to express gratitude for their service and to ensure that their families receive the support they deserve.
As discussions progress, there’s hope that the legislation will pass swiftly, allowing New York to solidify its commitment to all those who risked their lives for the safety and recovery of the city it calls home. The Ignazio Giacalone Act stands as a testament to the strength of community and the importance of remembering every hero, not just those who wear uniforms in traditional capacities.
