The D9 Harlem Votes coalition just lately hosted the 2025 NYC Mayoral Candidates Discussion board to debate their plans for addressing urgent points going through New York. This occasion was held at Mom AME Zion Church in Harlem.
D9 Harlem Votes is a civic engagement coalition powered by members of the Divine 9 Black Greek-letter organizations and is dedicated to uplifting the neighborhood by means of political schooling, advocacy, and mobilization.
Neighborhood empowerment, civic engagement, and knowledgeable voting had been the main target of the discussion board, which began with Nicole Yearwood, a member of the coalition, describing ranked selection voting and inspiring the viewers to be strategic and intentional when casting their ballots this election season.
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Kercena Dozier, Erika Ewing, and Drew Gabriel delivered opening remarks, every underscoring the significance of community-led political engagement and voter turnout.
The occasion moderator was Dr. Basil A. Smikle, Jr., professor of follow and director of the M.S. in Nonprofit Administration Program on the Columbia College College of Skilled Research, who can also be an MSNBC political analyst. Smikle was assisted by youth moderators Nasiah Anderson, 17; Jada Toliver-Rodriquez, 15; and Kayla Nicole Johnson, 20.
Every candidate addressed crucial subjects, from public security and housing to youth funding, schooling, and psychological well being. The occasion additionally included an viewers Q&A phase, permitting Harlem residents to have interaction instantly with these in search of to steer the town.
The night featured appearances and remarks from these NYC mayoral candidates (in alphabetical order): Eric Adams; Dr. Selma Bartholomew; Michael Blake; Zohran Mamdani; Zellnor Myrie; Jessica Ramos; Whitney Tilson; and Jim Walden, Esq.
Throughout closing remarks, Drew Gabriel inspired attendees to take what they realized to the poll field.