Cecil Brooks Jr.

Educating Bronxites who seek a voice in local politics. The primary role of a District Leader is representing a political party – and let’s be honest, the Democratic machine needs some work. I will hold regular forums to share how we can become informed voters. We can fight back federal voting restrictions on Generation Z, women, transgender folks, and communities of color by guiding as many of our neighbors into the voter registration process as possible.

Filling vacant seats with the next generation to replace the old guard. In specific cases, District Leaders can influence who gets an opportunity to run for office. The problem? Too many District Leaders are already elected officials with multiple political titles that they want to monopolize. Our current Male DL tried to run for City Council and kept this position. The current Female DL is also our sitting Assemblymember. I want to restrict this practice.

Leading trash pickups & coordinating with DSNY. The Department of Sanitation oversees our city’s management of solid waste and trash collection. Affectionately known as “New York’s Strongest” essential workers, they move millions of pounds daily. However, they can’t clean our borough alone. So while I continue to engage them (as I have done in government), I am taking matters in my own hands by organizing clean-ups and planting flowers across The Bronx.

Organizing free programming for livable streets. As an urbanist, I empower communities around safe ways to enjoy our open spaces. Block parties, community gardens, and street vendors are all fundamental aspects of life in New York City. That’s why I’ve supported dozens of family-friendly outdoor events. As your District Leader, I will use my platform to lobby for more funding, more support, and fewer hurdles to activating the public space that our tax dollars pay for.

Challenging the disinvestment and structural racism that leaves The Bronx with fewer municipal services. Raising awareness of other neighborhoods with a higher standard of public engagement before large-scale construction projects that disrupt our daily routines. Calling attention to the high concentration of substance abuse facilities in working-class communities. I will FIGHT for us to pay our Fair Share in every manner – nothing more, and nothing less.

Starting Democratic clubs to make elections accessible. The South Bronx has seen huge increases in its population and voter turnout. Still, too many of our neighbors who wish to change their party affiliation or learn about campaigning have no political home. Instead of establishing groups to educate each other, our current politicians launch informal clubs to market themselves twice a year before elections. I will support our own independent club.

Highlighting companies that hire, job fairs, and future careers. While a District Leader cannot guarantee employment, what I can do is recruit nonprofits and businesses to more of The Bronx. For a decade, my work has placed me in contact with thousands of professionals across the city. I helped put millions of dollars into the pockets of Bronxites. Unlike most other elected officials who hoard opportunities, I will be an open book who wants you to thrive.

Mobilizing agencies & electeds at all levels. One of the biggest powers that a District Leader has is their platform. They are called upon by higher-level politicians to collaborate all the time. Are you getting harassed by a greedy landlord? Does your child’s school need outdoor space for recess? Is your 311 request going unanswered for months? Let me magnify YOUR VOICE to make sure you are heard by the right people in office who can address your issues.

Hiring poll workers who speak our area’s top 10 languages. The South Bronx has a wonderful collection of rainbow neighbors from all cultures and colors. Our election sites should reflect the people who live here – especially when they become citizens of the United States. I will deliver better nonpartisan voter outreach to growing populations in Arabic, Bengali, Chinese (Mandarin & Cantonese), French, Garifuna, Haitian Creole, Mayan, Nahuatl, and Spanish.

Setting the example for living with dignity & pride. I take pride in the organic relationships I share with many of you. I am just as excited to meet the rest of you! This race is personal for me. Not only because I live here, but because it makes me happy to see my neighborhood thrive. I believe in joy and solidarity rather than fear and entitlement. You have my word that I will always advocate for your best interests in public & private. Not as a campaigner, but as a neighbor and comrade.