Dear Friend,

When I first met State Sen. Gustavo Rivera 10 years ago, I immediately connected with his fierce advocacy for our youth, and we became fast friends. We first met when I started working in the Bronx, at the launch of my organization’s Young Adult Literacy Program at the Bronx Center Library. He’s a tireless advocate and civil servant, and that’s why I’m delighted he endorsed me for his ranked-choice ballot today. 



This is an important endorsement, because with ranked-choice voting we have the chance to stop the disenfranchisement of candidates like me — candidates who are first-time, women of color, from immigrant communities, single mothers, and educators, who are often overlooked. Too often, words like viability and electability - code for networks or deep pockets - serve as gatekeepers, even though most would agree that elected office should be accessible to everyone. 

Sen. Rivera and I agree that we need equity-centered policy coming out of City Hall, especially with the coronavirus pandemic worsening the crises of inequity we were already facing. I’m in this race to fight for a vision of equity and justice that centers the communities I’ve been serving in for 25 years, but I need your help.

We’re fighting for a New York City that works for everyone. If you’re able, will you help us grow our people-powered, grassroots movement by making a donation today? 

Pa’lante, in solidarity, 

Dianne