NEW YORK – A Haitian-born Democratic district leader has officially declared his candidacy for the New York State Senate in the 21st District, joining a growing list of Haitian-born or Haitian Americans who hold, or are seeking, elective office in New York.
“Pierre” “Last year, a new era dawned in Albany with the defeat of the IDC (Independent Democratic Caucus), the Republicans, and do-nothing Democrats who cozy up to real estate and special interests instead of speaking out for their constituents,” said Josue “Josh” Pierre late last month as he declared his candidacy for the district that is currently represented by African American Kevin Parker.
“As an immigrant and a member of the LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer) community, I’ve seen first-hand the progress we’ve made,” said Pierre. “But our fight for affordable housing, fully-funded public schools, and access to healthcare is not over.
“That’s why I’m running for State Senate: to fight for our values and deliver the change we need,” said Pierre, who migrated with his family from Haiti when he was age five.
BACKGROUND
He said he has lived in the 21st District since migration, attended public schools and graduated from Baruch College, City University of New York, with a degree in accounting.
Pierre most recently served as the Brooklyn Borough Director for New York City Comptroller Scott Stringer, where he led a team to connect Brooklyn residents with government resources and services. He has also served as a Democratic District Leader for the 42nd Assembly District since 2016.
