Candidate Questionnaire Responses
When in office, what will you do to reduce harm and ensure there is social and economic equity for Black Long Islanders? If you are an incumbent, what policies/initiatives/laws have you supported that do this?
As an incumbent, I have made it a priority to reduce harm and promote social and economic equity for Black Long Islanders through targeted policies and community-driven initiatives. My approach centers on addressing systemic inequities in education, healthcare, and the criminal justice system.
I am a prime sponsor of the reparations legislation, which will address the lasting impacts of slavery and systemic racism on Black communities. This legislation will create a pathway to examine and redress the historical and ongoing harms that have disproportionately affected Black Long Islanders, ensuring that we confront this injustice head-on.
I’ve also fought to increase funding for schools in underserved communities and have supported workforce development programs that offer training and career pathways for our youth.
Healthcare equity has been a cornerstone of my work, from advocating for better maternal health outcomes to expanding access to mental health services and affordable care for all. As chair of the Black, Puerto Rican, Hispanic, and Asian Legislative Caucus, I helped create the Timbuctoo Pipeline, which provides environmental job opportunities for young people of color across New York State, promoting both economic growth and environmental justice.
Moving forward, I will continue to push for policies that ensure Black Long Islanders can thrive, including reforms in policing, expanding business opportunities for minority-owned enterprises, and protecting voting rights to make sure every voice is heard. By addressing these structural issues, we can create a more just and equitable Long Island for everyone.
Is there anything else you'd like us to know about your campaign?
In addition to the work I have already shared, my campaign is focused on addressing economic inequality and expanding opportunities for all New Yorkers. I am particularly passionate about expanding access to quality healthcare, continuing the fight for maternal health equity, and supporting policies that prioritize mental health services for underserved communities.
I am also committed to addressing the impacts of systemic racism through policies like the reparations legislation I sponsor, which aims to examine and remedy the long-standing effects of slavery and discrimination. Furthermore, I am focused on ensuring that small businesses, especially minority- and women-owned enterprises, have the resources and support they need to thrive.
By centering my campaign on these key issues, I aim to build a more equitable and prosperous future for all Long Islanders.