Staten Island

TODAY, February 12th, Council Member Jimmy Van Bramer was joined by members of the NYC Council LGBT and Progressive Caucuses, members of the LGBTQ community, and progressive groups to denounce homophobia and to reiterate calls for Council Member Ruben Diaz Sr. to resign. “Council Member Ruben Diaz Sr. must resign. I do not want an apology. We are past time for apologies. Words have consequences. And Council Member Diaz’s words happen to be part of a long history of homophobia and disgusting attacks on the LGBTQ community. The NYC Council cannot tolerate elected officials who use their power and authority to demonize, hurt, and incite violence against marginalized people,” said Council Member Jimmy Van Bramer. “I am proud to have led this effort because I have an obligation as a gay man to speak up for my community and to protect and save the lives of LGBTQ youth. I call on Council Member Diaz to resign, not because I want to stifle his free speech or religious beliefs, but because I know all too well how homophobic smears like this are detrimental to the health and wellbeing of LGBTQ youth. Our community has been fighting for a seat at the table for generations. Now that we have rightly claimed our seats at the table, it is time to close the door on bigotry and hate once and for all.” *** Based on the LGBTQ Caucus of New York City Council's call for the resignation of Councilman, Reverend Ruben Diaz Sr, do you agree for Diaz to resign?

Total Vote: 15

Yes. His views are incomparable to being an elected official. No. Resignation would infringe on his religious freedom. He should not resign but he should apologize to the LGBTQ Community. He should not resign or apologize. I don't care what he does. It's not my business.

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What would you change to make the most significant positive impact on the quality of live in Parkchester?

Total Vote: 25

I would offer tax incentives for health food stores like Wholefoods to move to the area (preferably the 365 economy chain). I would take steps to improve security in Parkchester. I would offer more senior services, and host year-round events in the Oval. I would offer resources to entrepreneurs and would-be entrepreneurs in Parkchester. I would open a multiservice community center with services for children (tutoring, counseling, etc.) and adults (resume writing assistance, legal services, letter writing assistance, health seminars, skill building courses, etc.).

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