NEWYORK: Indian-American Muslim Shakeel Rahman hosted a ‘meet-and-greet’ event in Valley Stream, in honor of Democratic candidates.
The event was attended by Democratic candidates from various electoral districts, providing members of the local community with the opportunity to meet the candidates in person and ask them questions.
The event aimed to raise electoral awareness among the public and encourage citizens to exercise their right to vote.
Shakeel Rahman introduced the Democrats candidates to the participants and welcomed them.
The candidates included: U.S. Congresswoman Laura Gillen, Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages, Nassau County Legislators Siela Bynoe and Carrié Solages, as well as Joe Scianablo, a candidate for Supervisor of the Town of Hempstead and Joylette Williams, a candidate for Town Clerk.
During the event, the leaders expressed their commitment for community development, the rights of immigrants, and the improvement of public services.
They also highlighted key initiatives, including development funds for Nassau County, the YMCA center, school funding, and free lunch programs.
Community members posed various questions to the candidates, who provided direct responses.
In an exclusive conversation with “Voice of South Asia”, the Democratic candidates shared their perspectives.
County Legislator Cynthia Nuñez emphasized the importance of voting and the need to stand united against Islamophobia and all forms of religious or racial hatred.
She pledged to represent the rights and concerns of the community at the governmental level and urged the public to exercise their democratic right to vote.
A candidate for Town of Hempstead Supervisor Joe Scianablo, expressed his commitment to ensure equal representation for all communities, particularly the Muslim community within government affairs, vowing that no community would be overlooked.
Urging the public to cast their ballots, he said that every community deserves an effective voice and inclusion in governmental decision-making.
A candidate for Town of Hempstead Clerk Joylette Williams encouraged the public to vote, noting that every single vote is vital for addressing local issues and securing better representation. Joylette assured the community that elected officials would serve to listen to their concerns and work toward solutions.
New York State Assembly Member Michaelle Solages identified the reduction of utility bills, relief from property taxes, and the protection of healthcare services as her key priorities.
Expressing concern over cuts to healthcare funding by the federal government, she said that she would continue her efforts to ensure affordable medical services for the public and protect them from the burden of high treatment costs.
Nassau County Legislator Carrie Solages said that this election is crucial for the future of all Americans, especially immigrants and their descendants.
She emphasized the need to stand united against Islamophobia and all forms of racial or religious hatred, asserting that we are one nation and that unity is our true strength.
Later, the Democratic candidates extended special thanks to the host, Shakeel Rehman, commending his efforts in bringing the community together on a single platform and facilitating direct engagement.
Participants say “meet-and-greet” event served as a significant opportunity for the local community to interact directly with the candidates, pose questions, and effectively participate in the democratic and electoral process.
