My mother’s family had lived in Harlem all of their lives. But when I was born, my mother was forced to acknowledge the injustice that was New York City public schools. She knew that she could not take a chance with her son’s education. She used every dollar that she had to move out to a neighborhood with a great public school system. I have since returned to my home, Harlem, and found that some things have not changed. I know we can do better.

I am running in 2021 for City Council in Harlem because our community should not be forced to make the decision my mother made so long ago: to stay and accept over-priced housing, under-funded schools and minimal job opportunities; or to move elsewhere. I know that we have a chance to create many jobs by working with small businesses to ensure they hire our neighbors and life-long residents, just as I have advocated throughout my career as a teacher and lawyer.  I am honored to be placed first on your District 9 ballot and will respect the position.

For me, this fight is personal. Every Harlemite deserves the opportunity to receive a great education, a great job and affordable housing right here. To make that happen, Harlem needs elected officials that reflect the values of our community. As an advocate for our neighborhoods, I was honored to represent our residents in the 2017 City Council election, and was one of the youngest candidates on the ballot. That is why I went to court to end a rent scam operated by a State Senate candidate running in our district. And that’s why I’m running for office today.

I hope to serve on your City Council to help Harlem get the resources it needs and the leadership it deserves. Please show your support by learning more about and donating to the campaign as we look forward to the June 22, 2021 election!