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White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre receives keys to Hempstead

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White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre was awarded keys to Hempstead village in a special ceremony last month.

The Hempstead native received the prestigious honor from Hempstead Mayor Waylyn Hobbs, Jr.

“It’s a big day and I’m incredibly thankful to the village of Hempstead, which really helped me be the person that I am today,” said Jean-Pierre, who made history in 2022 as the first Black woman and openly LGBTQ person to hold the role.

A Haitian immigrant who moved to Hempstead from Queens at age 10, Jean-Pierre, 50, said her rise from volunteer firefighter to key political figure is a testament to her community’s influence.

Visiting her elementary school

As part of the ceremony, Jean-Pierre visited her former elementary school, Joseph McNeil Elementary, where she spoke to students and was warmly received.

“It was great to see their eyes light up, and I got hugs from many of them,” said .Jean-Pierre, who has served as White House press secretary since May 2022.

Her final day on the job is Jan. 21.

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