Velázquez On Passing of Martin Greenfield

Brooklyn, NY - Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) released the following statement regarding the passing of Martin Greenfield:
 
             “I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Martin Greenfield, an amazing human being, a master tailor, and a beloved business owner and community champion in Brooklyn. Born in then Czechoslovakia in 1928, Martin was a holocaust survivor who experienced the horrors of Auschwitz. His experiences there honed his character and fueled his determination to survive against all odds.
 
           “Martin arrived as a refugee in New York in 1947 with no connections and no knowledge of English. He began working as a floor boy at a local clothing factory and worked his way up for 30 years. Martin Greenfield Clothiers was born in 1977, when Martin decided to purchase the factory when his employer decided to shut down the factory. From that day forward, Martin was a significant presence in Williamsburg. His commitment to crafting garments made in Brooklyn, made in America, in a union shop, underscored his deep connection to his craft, workers, and community.
 
          “His extraordinary talent as a master tailor earned him high-profile clients from many areas of American life. He had the honor of designing suits for celebrities like Leonardo DiCaprio, LeBron James and six U.S. presidents, including Eisenhower, Clinton, and Obama. His craftsmanship and attention to detail were unmatched, and he earned his reputation as America’s most famous and successful custom-suit tailor.
 
         “I recall visiting him several years ago, where he fondly gave me a tour of the shop, introduced me to his talented workforce, and gifted me a copy of his memorable book ‘Measure of a Man’. We talked about his industry and how he refused to outsource his business. Martin’s commitment to doing right by his customers and community defined his career. Though he was one of America’s most famous tailors, he never lost touch with his community in Brooklyn. Martin brought other local business owners together to establish one of the first Industrial parks in New York City, now known as Evergreen. For decades, Evergreen has helped develop the economy in North Brooklyn and assisted countless small business owners. 
 
      “My condolences go out to Tod and Jay, their families, friends, and everyone who knew him. May his memory inspire us all, and may he rest in peace!”
 

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