'Justice, Equality, Community Uplift': LI Couple Honored By Street Renaming

WHEATLEY HEIGHTS, NY — The legacy of a Long Island couple dedicated to serving the Wheatley Heights community will live on thanks to a recent street renaming.

Eugene Burnett Sr., the first black police sergeant in the Town of Babylon, and his wife, Bernice, were honored with the unveiling of Eugene and Bernice Burnett Memorial Way in Wheatley Heights in June.

In a statement, Town of Babylon officials called the Burnetts "extraordinary individuals whose lives were dedicated to justice, equality and community upliftment. They were steadfast community leaders and advocates who broke barriers and opened doors for future generations."

The Burnett's family attended the unveiling, joined by officials including Town of Babylon Supervisor Rich Schaffer, Deputy Supervisor Tony Martinez, Suffolk County Legislator Jason A. Richberg and Assemblyman Kwani B. O'Pharrow.

"From desegregating Long Island neighborhoods and schools to mentoring young leaders and empowering black families, the Burnetts turned personal struggle into powerful, lasting change," officials said.