The Progressive Caucus of the New York City Council announced new leadership for the 2014-2017 legislative session today. The five officers were determined by majority vote of the Progressive Caucus members, and are as follows:
- Co-Chairs: Council Member Donovan Richards (CC 31, Queens) and Council Member Antonio Reynoso (CC 34, Brooklyn)
- Vice-Chair for Policy: Council Member Ben Kallos (CC 5, Manhattan)
- Vice-Chair for Budget Advocacy: Council Member Helen Rosenthal (CC 6, Manhattan)
- Treasurer: Council Member Margaret Chin (CC 1, Manhattan)
“I am extremely honored to have been chosen by my colleagues to Co-Chair the Progressive Caucus,” said Council Member Donovan Richards. “I would like to thank them for entrusting me to help fight for a more just New York City. I look forward to working with the Caucus to ensure New York City is more equitable, sustainable, and just.”
“I am honored to serve as the Co-Chair of the Progressive Caucus alongside Council Member Richards,” said Council Member Antonio Reynoso. “I am confident that the partnership with my colleagues in the Caucus will produce real solutions and promote a progressive focus at the City Council.”
“I look forward to working with the Progressive Caucus to advance a bold and innovative agenda so the city serves every New Yorker, no matter what background or neighborhood,” said Council Member Ben Kallos. “Through collaboration and with input from all members, the policies of the Progressive Caucus will translate into better education and jobs, more affordable housing, and greater government accountability.”
“I’m honored to be a part of the Progressive Caucus leadership team as Vice-Chair for Budget Advocacy,” said Council Member Helen Rosenthal. “During this time of progressive leadership, every dollar in the City’s budget should be allocated with a lens towards reducing income inequality. I look forward to bringing that perspective to this new position.”
“It’s an honor to serve as Treasurer of the Progressive Caucus,” said Council Member Margaret Chin. “I look forward to working with my colleagues to ensure our resources build up a stronger New York City with greater opportunity and access for all.”
The Progressive Caucus was founded in 2010 with the goals of creating a more just and equal New York City, combating all forms of discrimination, and advancing public policies that offer genuine opportunity to all New Yorkers, especially those who have been left out of our society’s prosperity.
During the 2010-2013 legislative session, Council Members Brad Lander and Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito served as Co-Chairs and Council Member Julissa Ferreras served as Treasurer.
“We’re thankful to the outgoing leadership team and to the founding members of the Progressive Caucus for their vision and guidance over the last legislative session,” said Co-Chairs Donovan Richards and Antonio Reynoso. “Our city is moving towards a stronger, more united future as a result of their continued leadership. We look forward to continuing to build on the foundation that has been laid and strive to emulate their dedication to the principles of the Progressive Caucus.”
The newly expanded Progressive Caucus has added two Vice-Chair positions this session in order to better amplify and build on the policy and advocacy work of the Caucus, as articulated in the founding Statement of Principles and the “13 Bold Ideas” policy platform. The members look forward to partnering with all of their colleagues in the City Council to advance the mutual goal of city that works for all New Yorkers.
The complete list of Progressive Caucus members will be released later this month.