Merengue king – and mayor – Johnny Ventura was a legend whose music and public service both reflected his love of the Dominican Republic.

Bloomberg Philanthropies announced that 16 U.S. cities have achieved 2021 What Works Cities certification, which evaluates the degree to which city leaders are using data to inform policy and funding decisions.

The G20’s announcement supporting global implementation of the TCFD framework recognizes the importance of a coordinated approach to climate risk disclosure and adds new momentum to the effort to address the economic risks of climate change.

Bloomberg Philanthropies announced new partnerships with six global cities aimed at accelerating digital transformation to improve the lives of residents and boost recovery from the COVID-19 global pandemic.

Bob Katzmann was a brilliant jurist whose kindness, compassion, and decency set an example for others and made a difference in a lot of lives – especially the work he led to ensure that everyone, regardless of their immigration status, has the right to legal representation.

When I was asked to Chair the TCFD in 2015, few people were talking about the importance of climate-related financial disclosure – or the enormous potential it holds for accelerating the transition to a clean energy economy.

The energy and inspiration we get from being with other people is what drives the world forward. It’s how problems get solved. It’s how innovation happens. It’s how power is exercised. It’s how tyrants are toppled. It’s how changes get made. And it’s how we can achieve great things in our lives, for our communities and for our countries.

The recent violent attacks on Jews that have taken place in NYC, LA, and other cities, including in the U.K., are abhorrent – as is the vandalism that has occurred at both temples and mosques. Jews and Muslims must stand united against this violence and hatred.

Mayor Covas was a bold and creative leader who helped make the economic engine of Brazil one of the most innovative cities in the region.

The following remarks were delivered by Mike Bloomberg at the Howard University College of Medicine Honors and Oaths Ceremony on May 7, 2021.