1. What is the most important issue in Council District 42 you would address if elected?

The most important issue is full employment. A community that does not have meaningful living-wage jobs for its people is a community that will suffer from high rates of health problems, crime and miseducation. A recent study found that in NYC nearly 50% of black males, 40% of black females and 35% of Latinos are unemployed. This is a crisis in the community and must be resolved.

2. What other important issues would you address if elected?

Health care concerns are at the top of the list. Without good health care, residents will not enjoy fully the fruits of their successes. Residents in our district suffer from high rates of blood pressure, hypertension, HIV/AIDS, cancer. This situation is exacerbated by the fact that there are inadequate health care services. Affordable housing, relevant quality education, available recreational and cultural facilities, entrepreneurial initiatives and opportunities for our youth are other important issues.

3. What makes you the best candidate for this office?

I have a proven track record as an effective council member working to deliver resources to our district. I secured $3.1 million for the current renovation of Linden Park; $12.5 million for the construction of Linden Community Center (2006); and $8 million towards the construction of a housing complex including 80 units for seniors and 50 two-story town houses, which will be affordable for our community residents; nearly a million dollars for programs for youth, seniors, community organizations and tenant associations. I led the campaign to secure $10 million from the City Council to address the issue of Black and Latino unemployment. My office has done a superb job of providing services to constituents regarding public housing, education, and other issues.

I have been an effective leader and advocate for all people regarding issues of police misconduct, reparations and freeing political prisoners. Legislatively, I co-sponsored bills regarding predatory lending, lead paint and a living wage. As chair of the higher education committee (CUNY), I secured $7 million for the Peter Valone scholarship; $4.5 million in tuition assistance for CUNY students; and over $440 million in an unprecedented four-year capital plan to repair CUNY Colleges. I want to continue to serve my people and realize my vision for our liberation. Remember, "The struggle may be long, but the victory is certain."

(Reprinted as supplied by the candidate.)

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