Candidate Name: Samuel J. Gonzalez
Office Running For: Suffolk County Legislator. District 9
Party: Democrat, Working Families
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?
Since the murder of George Floyd, I have utilized my strong support and advocacy for law enforcement to call for a police reform project that was adopted (and is still to this day) in the county. I was the only No vote on the final passage, as I think it didn't go far enough to bring light to the issues that Black Long Islanders face every day. I have also fought to keep the "My Brother's Keeper" program active at Brentwood High School, ensuring that Black folks have the chance to understand the importance of civics and community engagement.
Is there anything else you'd like us to know about your campaign?
I am one of two minority Legislators at the Horsehoe and the only Latino. Carrying that weight is a difficult sensation, but a necessary one when almost 25% of residents in the County are of Latino descent.