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first dominican representative
First Dominican Representative?
On August 4, 2011 there was an article in the New York Daily News by Uptown Political Columnist Frank Lombardi titled “In line for nation’s 1st Dominican rep?” This article talked about the new redistricting lines that will come in effect because of the 2010 census. According to the 2010 Census, the Dominican population of Manhattan grew by 14% since 2000. This means that the representative who is currently holding the seat for the 15th congressional district – Charles Rangel, might have a harder time keeping his seat due to many of his political scandals.
When it comes to the redistricting lines, they are made to best represent the demographic changes over the past ten years. With the increase of Dominicans in this district, why not have a hopeful Dominican candidate? It is time to increase our voice nationally. With approximately 1.36 million Dominicans in the U.S. today (Buffington 2011) some national representation has been earned. There are many Dominicans who contribute to this great nation from business owners to athletes to celebrities to politicians. One politician who stands out is State Senator of the 31st district Adriano Espaillat.
Adriano Espaillat became “the first Dominican elected to any state legislative seat in the U.S. when he was first elected to the Assembly in 1996.” (Daily News 2011) He has been a significant factor in many positive changes made to upper Manhattan. Just recently, he had a demonstration against the dumping of 200 million gallons of untreated sewage onto the Hudson River. However, in June 2011, when the legislative sessions were extended, he was a key role in fighting for tougher rent regulation laws. He displayed extraordinary leadership and was able to extend and strengthen the rent regulation laws.
Whether Congressman Rangel decides to re-run or not, there are still more gains than loses. The New York State Assembly and Senate should see significant increases in representation. If redistricting is made in order to best represent the demographic changes then we will truly see this representation. With the increase in the Latino communities across the United States, there should be more representation in all other legislative houses. Also, economically and socially, the oppression against the Latino communities starts to end now. This is the chance to stand up and gain the power and respect that we rightfully deserve. As one of my favorite quotes to live by, and one we should all live by, “Unidad Es La Llave.” (Unity is the Key.)
Also if anyone is interested in reading the original article, here’s the link:
