Clergy members, community leaders, and residents gathered in East Flatbush on April 9 in a show of solidarity with New York City Council Member Farah Louis and her sister, Debbie Louis, following a federal investigation involving the pair.
The press conference, held near the Shirley Chisholm Recreation Center, brought together faith leaders and advocates who urged the public to withhold judgment as authorities continue their inquiry.
Federal prosecutors visited the sisters’ homes on March 23 as part of an investigation into whether they allegedly accepted bribes or kickbacks tied to city-funded contracts connected to BHRAGS Home Care Corp., a nonprofit providing home care and community services. Contrary to earlier reports, no raid took place, and only cell phones were seized.
Authorities have not filed charges or publicly accused either woman of wrongdoing. Both have been named in a federal search warrant seeking potential evidence.
Speakers at the event repeatedly emphasized the importance of due process and cautioned against premature conclusions. Bishop Orlando Findlayter described both women as longstanding community advocates.
“Council Member Farah Louis has served well and will continue to serve well,” he said. “These are women of integrity who have given their all to this community.”
Pastor Gilford T. Monrose opened the gathering with prayer, while other clergy members echoed calls for patience as the investigation unfolds.
Findlayter also pushed back against calls for disciplinary action within the City Council, urging lawmakers not to refer Louis to the ethics committee in the absence of formal charges.
“They are innocent until proven guilty,” he said. “Let the process play itself out.”
Pastor James A. Thornton of Salem Missionary Baptist Church highlighted the sisters’ character and accessibility, describing Louis as a responsive and engaged public servant. “She is one of the few politicians you can call and get an answer,” he noted.
Community leaders framed the situation as part of a broader concern within Brooklyn’s Haitian community. Jensen Desrosiers, head of the Haitian Powerhouse, said the investigation has sparked unease but also galvanized support.
“We are here to show solidarity,” Desrosiers said. “We’re not interfering with the process, but we want it known that the community is watching.”
Additional support came from tenant association leaders, clergy, and local advocates, many of whom pointed to the council member’s role in securing more than $140 million for the Shirley Chisholm Recreation Center, seen as a major investment in youth and community development.
Debbie Louis, who serves in the New York State Executive Chamber, was also praised for her behind-the-scenes work on major initiatives, including advocacy related to healthcare and state funding efforts.
Pastor Louis Straker acknowledged the challenges of public service, describing politics as a demanding arena, but maintained that both sisters have conducted themselves with integrity.
“We are standing where the fruits of her labor are visible,” he said, referencing the recreation center. “This is the kind of leadership she brings.”
Despite the growing public attention, both sisters declined to comment. A family source confirmed they are cooperating fully with investigators and have not been charged with any offenses.
As the probe continues, community leaders say their message remains clear: allow the legal process to unfold without prejudice.
“We stand together,” Thornton said. “Because in unity, there is strength.”