Guyanese-born seeks to make City Hall history
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Richard S. David, a former vice president of the NYC Economic Development Corporation, is poised to become the first Guyanese-born in the City Council, when constituents of District 28, Queens, go to the polls in the September primary, and general election in November of this year.
Raised by a single mother, David and two brothers, who, were born in the small village of Mahaciony, on the East Coast of Demerara, in Guyana, is a highly ambitious young man, is adamant that local government has neglected his district for many years, and is ready to delivery real results and change.
David said he was inspired by President Barack Obama’s call to action in 2008, and became a mentor to boys and girls of color in Southeast Queens.
Small in stature, but big and bold in vision, David will no doubt have a powerful voice in City Hall for residents of District, 28, that he said, have been locked out of all decision making.
“We do not have a respected voice fighting to bring more resources into the community,” said David, adding, that citizens’ quality of life for citizens, has decreased.
“We need a fresh start with a council member like me, who can make government work for all of us,” said David, a Hunter College graduate, who organized students on campus, where he was president of the WISE Club.
His journey started at age 13, when he got his first job. He worked at the South Queens, Boys & Girls Club, which today is one of the leading social justice organizations in Council District 28, and New York City.
David’s work ethic and community initiatives have been stellar. And since launching his campaign mid February, David, who obtained his Master’s Degree from New York University, graduating debt-free, because of his determination to succeed on his own, said he will bring bright new ideas to the New York City Council.
“I have worked in government for over 10 years and I have been a leading advocate for the community for even longer,” said the young politician, who is ready to roll up his sleeves to deliver real results. He said he is ready, now more that ever. “This is the kind of change we need.”
According to David, he has maintained robust ties in the community, even while working and going to school, by engaging religious, civic and business associates. He was the youngest member of Community Board 9 for nine years where he remains active.