Council Member Nantasha Williams, NYS Senator Leroy Comrie and NYC Department of Parks and Recreation Join Forces to host Skate Festivals in Southeast Queens
June 10, 2024
Queens, NY – Southeast Queens’ love for skating reached new heights as the NYC Department of Parks and Recreation, in collaboration with Council Member Nantasha Williams and NYS Senator Leroy Comrie, proudly hosted two exciting Skate Festivals. These events took place at Delphin H. Greene Playground in Cambria Heights, Queens on Saturday, June 1st, and at Hollis Playground in Hollis, Queens on Saturday, June 8th. The festivals are designed with a special focus on providing young children with a safe, family-friendly environment to experience roller skating, many for the first time.
Skating enthusiasts of all ages were invited to join in the festivities, which featured a variety of engaging activities tailored to cater to the needs of young children and families. From beginner-friendly skating zones to interactive workshops led by experienced instructors, these festivals offer the perfect opportunity for families to bond and create lasting memories together. Traditional Park activities and programming also filled in the event with face painting, cotton candy, board games, and much more. Both events will feature music, food vendors, and giveaways, creating a festive atmosphere for attendees to enjoy.
Council Member Nantasha Williams emphasized the importance of providing accessible recreational opportunities for families in her community, stating, “Roller skating is not only a fun and exciting activity but also promotes physical fitness and social interaction. We are thrilled to partner with the NYC Department of Parks and Recreation and NYS Senator Leroy Comrie to host these festivals, which aim to introduce young children to the joy of skating in a safe and supportive environment.”
“This Skate Festival is such a refreshing way of promoting healthy, active lives for our young adults and families in Southeast Queens. It also provides a touch of nostalgia that everyone can enjoy as they learn some new roller-skating tricks. Community-wide summer events really make Queens the ‘Borough of Neighborhoods’. Thank you to Council Member Nantasha Williams for bringing this vision to life and to the Department of Parks and Recreation for their invaluable support in making it possible. I am excited to continue our work in bringing free, fun-filled events to our area all summer long,” said Senator Leroy Comrie.
“Skate festivals are an exciting way for families to strengthen their community connections and create lifelong memories in our parks,” said NYC Parks Commissioner Sue Donoghue. “Thanks to the dedicated efforts of Council Member Nantasha Williams and Senator Leroy Comrie, the skate festival at Delphin H. Greene Playground was a truly wonderful success, featuring family-friendly interactive workshops, face painting, and offering many families their first experience with roller skating.”
Richard Lomax, a local resident who attended the Hollis Playground event said, “I would never have thought to bring my nieces and nephews to go roller skating if this didn’t come to my community. It just is not something I find in my neighborhood too much, so this is special for them.”
Tanya Dean, owner of Skaterobics, the vendor for the event said “I’m very thankful to Council Member Williams for having us at her Skate Festivals. She is very consistent and hands on with the community. She loves what she does and is very supportive of the events in our community. We appreciate and are thankful that she keeps us abreast on what’s happening in our neighborhood and the city at large.”
Queens Borough President Donovan Richards and Council Member Nantasha Williams stood alongside local advocates and educators in October 2023 at Delphin H. Greene Playground to celebrate a substantial $7.7 million allocation secured through the partnership of Queens Borough President, Speaker Adams, and Council Member Williams to finance substantial renovations to the playground that will greatly enhance the quality of life for local residents.
3rd Annual District 27 South East Queens Community Health Fair Provides Vital Resources for Healthier Living
May 15, 2023
Hollis, NY — Residents of District 27 in Southeast Queens came together on May 11th for the
3rd Annual Community Health Fair, hosted by Council Member Nantasha Williams, in
partnership with Senator Leroy Comrie and Assembly Member Alicia L. Hyndman. This free
community event, held at Mt. Olivet Baptist Church, served as a valuable resource opportunity
for community members to learn about living healthier, and safer lives. With approximately sixty
to seventy attendees throughout the event, it was seen as another success by all parties.
With a commitment to promoting well-being and accessibility to health care, the Community
Health Fair offered a vast array of services and resources to local residents. Attendees had the
opportunity to receive free mammograms and dental exams. In addition to these vital screenings,
the event also featured a host of giveaways to further support health and wellness initiatives
within the community, courtesy of esteemed partners such as Emblem Health, NYU Dentistry,
FDNY, New York Presbyterian-Queens, and The Child Center of NY.
Council Member Nantasha Williams emphasized the importance of hosting free
community events focused on health, in stating, “the SEQ Community Health Fair exemplifies
our shared commitment to providing our community with accessible resources as well as
supporting their well-being. Through partnership, amongst local leaders and organizations, we
are able to empower residents of the district with the knowledge and tools to lead healthier
lives.”
“Emblem Health is committed to bringing resources to the communities we proudly serve,” said
Ann Marie Adamson-Serieux, Assistant Vice President of Community Engagement. “We
understand that by investing in our communities and their health, we are building stronger and
more resilient communities for generations to come and providing them with the necessary
resources to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.”
“We are proud to invest in our two most valuable commodities- our community and our health. Let’s grow wealthy together through these endeavors,” said Rev. Dr. Frankco Harris of Mt. Olivet Baptist Church, who hosted the event.
Community health fairs like this play a crucial role in addressing health disparities and ensuring that all members of the community have access to vital healthcare services and information. By offering free screenings, educational workshops, and resources, these events serve as catalysts for positive health outcomes and foster a culture of wellness within the community.
Health disparities in the southeastern region of Queens County underscore the urgency for initiatives like our community health fair. A recent study conducted by Northwell Health Community Health Needs Assessment 2022 – 2024 revealed concerning trends in this area. Despite having lower rates of preventable heart failure inpatient admissions compared to the state overall, the southeastern portion of the county has experienced an increase, alongside rising mortality rates from congestive heart failure. Moreover, preventable quality indicators for heart failure admissions are notably high in this region.
The study also highlights a prevalence of preventable admissions for chronic conditions and diabetes-related complications in the southeast, coupled with declining rates of self-management education and testing for high blood sugar. Furthermore, hypertension-related hospitalization rates are on the rise, particularly in this area. These findings emphasize the critical need for interventions such as our community health fair to address these disparities, provide education, and promote access to healthcare resources in the southeastern neighborhoods of Queens County.
DSTQUAC host Street Co-Naming Ceremony to Honor Legacy of Ethel Cuff Black, Founding Member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
May 7, 2024
Photo Credit: Kelon Miller
Jamaica, NY — Council Member Nantasha Williams, in partnership with Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. Queens Alumnae Chapter, Assembly Member Alicia L. Hyndman, Speaker Adrienne E. Adams, and Majority-Whip Selvena N. Brooks-Powers hosted a Street Co-Naming Ceremony to celebrate the life and impact of Ethel Cuff Black, a founding member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. The event, held at Roy Wilkins Park on May 5th, commemorated Black’s contributions to the community and her pioneering role in establishing one of the nation’s most prominent African American sororities. Over three hundred and fifty community members gathered in the rain to commemorate the occasion, predominantly members of the illustrious sorority.
Founded in 1913 at Howard University, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. is a non-profit organization committed to sisterhood, scholarship, and service. With a rich history of over a century, the sorority has played a pivotal role in advancing social justice, education, and civic engagement initiatives across the country.
Ethel Cuff Black’s legacy within Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. exemplifies the organization’s founding principles of empowerment and service. As a dedicated leader and advocate, Black championed causes related to education, civil rights, and community development, leaving an indelible mark on generations to come. In 1951 she helped charter the Queens Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated.
“As a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., this event is a poignant reminder of the remarkable legacy left by Ethel Cuff Black during her time in my community and beyond,” stated Council Member Nantasha Williams, expressing the significance of the event. “Her dedication to service and advocacy continues to inspire and guide us in our own efforts to uplift our communities.”
The Street Co-Naming Ceremony serves as a tribute to Black’s enduring legacy and contributions to the community. By renaming a portion of Foch Blvd in her honor, we ensure that her memory and impact will continue to inspire future generations.
“Founder and Charter member Ethel L. Cuff Black was a true servant of the Queens community. She was the FIRST African American teacher on staff at P.S. 108. It brings the Queens Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated immense joy to see her dedication honored with the street co-naming ceremony. This will forever be a momentous occasion in HERStory.” said Charelle Hassell-Gilbert, President, Queens Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated.
“Honoring the pioneers of our communities is essential to preserving our history, making it possible for future generations to know their roots,” said Speaker Adrienne Adams. “As a founding member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Ethel Cuff Black embodied the virtues of service and civic engagement. Through her decades of work as an educator across several states, Ethel taught countless scholars and helped young people realize their full potential. Her involvement and impact in the Southeast Queens community are felt to this day, especially through her leadership of the Queens Alumnae chapter of Delta Sigma Theta. Ethel’s memory will live on forever in our community, and I’m proud to join my colleagues in government to celebrate the street sign that bears her name.”
“Founder Ethel Cuff Black built a legacy that has inspired hundreds of generations of young women by focusing on sisterhood, community service, and education,” said NYC Council Majority Whip Selvena N. Brooks-Powers. “As a proud member of the illustrious Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., it brings me great joy and pride to pay tribute to this incredible woman whose leadership continues to shape the world around us today. May this marker inspire us all to be servant leaders throughout our communities, helping to leave each space a little better than we found it once we’ve left.”
“In commemorating Ethel Cuff Black’s profound legacy through the street co-naming ceremony, we honor a trailblazer whose dedication to service and advocacy echoes the very essence of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Soror Cuff Black’s tireless efforts in education, civil rights, and community development resonate deeply with our founding principles. This ceremony not only celebrates her remarkable contributions but also serves as a reminder of the enduring impact of sisterhood, scholarship, and service that define our organization. Together with Council Member Nantasha Williams and our esteemed partners, we proudly stand in recognition of Ethel Cuff Black’s pivotal role in shaping our communities and inspiring future generations,” said Assemblywoman Alicia L. Hyndman
The Street Co-Naming Ceremony not only pays tribute to Ethel Cuff Black but also serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving and celebrating the legacies of those who have made significant contributions to our communities.
Southeast Queens Elected Officials Host Property Tax Reform Town Hall to Spark Dialogue on Inequities in New York City Property Tax Code
April 24, 2024
Queens, NY — Council Member Nantasha Williams, in collaboration with NY Communities for Change, NYS Senator Leroy Comrie, Assembly Member Alicia Hyndman, NYC Comptroller Brad Lander, and the Southeast Queens delegation of elected officials, hosted a virtual Property Tax Reform Town Hall on April 23rd, which featured a panel discussion with elected leaders, advocates, and experts. The event aimed to discuss and address the inequities within the NYC property tax code, shedding light on why it exists, who benefits from the current situation, and what steps can be taken to bring relief to middle-class homeowners.
Property tax inequities disproportionately burden middle-class homeowners, exacerbating financial strain and widening economic disparities. These inequities often result in homeowners paying disproportionately higher taxes compared to their wealthier counterparts, further exacerbating housing affordability challenges. Addressing property tax inequities is crucial for promoting economic fairness and ensuring that homeowners across all income levels can thrive.
The collaboration of elected officials, policy experts and NY Communities for Change reflects a shared commitment to addressing systemic inequities and advocating for policies that prioritize the needs of working families and homeowners. The event was prompted following the recent decision by the state’s highest court in March 2024 to reinstate a lawsuit by a coalition called Tax Equity Now New York that sought to have the New York City property tax system declared illegal. The appeals court did not decide the issue in its ruling but instead returned the case to the state’s lowest court. However, the court’s 60-page decision gives instructions to the lower court to rule in such a way it is likely to uphold the plaintiff’s complaints that taxing homeowners less than rental buildings violates the state’s real property tax law, and by capping assessments in neighborhoods with rising property values, the city over-taxes minority communities in violation of the federal fair housing law.
“The Property Tax Reform Town Hall underscores our commitment to advocating for fair and equitable policies that benefit all members of our community,”states Council Member Nantasha Williams, regarding the importance of the event.“By bringing together elected leaders, advocates, and experts, we aim to amplify the voices of middle-class homeowners and drive meaningful change.”
The Property Tax Reform Town Hall provided a platform for meaningful dialogue and actionable solutions to address the disparities in property taxation. Panelists engaged in a candid discussion, sharing insights and perspectives on the complexities of the current system and proposing strategies for reform.
“Low income black and brown homeowners shouldn’t pay more property taxes than their white upper middle class counterparts. For decades, New York City has had a tax system that is both illogical and inequitable. It must end. We need an efficient and equitable tax system that treats homeowners of color fairly and helps our families stay in our communities for generations to come.” said DeSean Burrus, Organizer for NY Communities for Change.
The panel discussion featured insightful contributions from various panelists including Council Member Williams, State Senator Leroy Comrie, Assembly Member Alicia Hyndman, NYC Comptroller Brad Lander, NY Communities for Change, and Mutual Housing Association of New York (MHANY).
“Paying taxes is a responsibility that we are all willing to share, but it is currently not fair and affordable for many of my neighbors in Southeast Queens. I want to thank Council Member Nantasha Williams for organizing this important discussion on property taxes. I look forward to all of us learning more and taking collective action to reform this system,” said Harold Miller, homeowner and moderator of the Town Hall.
“I look forward to working with my colleagues to tackle existing inequities in the tax code that have unfairly burdened homeowners in Eastern Queens,” said Senator Leroy Comrie. “Together, we have listened to advocates, experts, and our constituents as we endeavor to get to the root of what reforms would help make for a fairer property tax system on both a city and state level. I thank everyone who came out to participate and commend Council Member Williams for convening this forum.”
“There is a need for a comprehensive approach to tackling rising property taxes on homeowners, recognizing that these issues disproportionately affect middle-class homeowners,” states Assemblywoman Alicia L. Hyndman, “we are calling for collaborative effort between government officials, community organizations, and residents to find solutions that will provide much-needed relief. This insightful panel discussion convened to discuss this pressing issue and offered valuable insights, underscoring the need for collaborative solutions to alleviate the burden on residents.”
“New York City’s current property tax system puts undue burden on homeowners in Southeast Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island while under-taxing my home in brownstone Brooklyn,” said NYC Comptroller Brad Lander. “Especially in the wake of a subpar state housing deal, this Property Tax Reform Town Hall aims to maintain the momentum needed to address New Yorkers’ number one concern: fair and affordable housing.”
“Real estate taxes are in fact disproportionate throughout the city and state; often resulting in mortgage default and ending in foreclosure and displacement. The City and State do have exemptions that address seniors exemption, disability and veterans, the working middle cases have been excluded. We need now more than ever a tax reform that will stabilize inequities.” said Ismene Speliotis, Executive Director of Mutual Housing Association of New York.
Residents interested in getting involved in the fight to reform the property tax system should reach out to DeSean Burrus, Queens Organizer for NY Communities for Change, to get involved in advocacy around this issue at dburrus@nycommunities.org.
Council Member Nantasha Williams Celebrates Earth Day: A Day of Fun and Sustainability for the Whole Family
April 21, 2024
Jamaica, NY — Council Member Nantasha Williams, in collaboration with Senator Leroy Comrie, Assembly Member Alicia L. Hyndman, and the New York City Parks Department recently hosted an Earth Day Celebration on April 20th with over two hundred families in attendance, in efforts to promote environmental awareness and sustainability initiatives within the community. This event, held at Roy Wilkins Park in Jamaica, Queens, aimed to educate and engage attendees of all ages on the importance of protecting our planet for generations to come.
Earth Day, observed annually on April 22nd, is a global event dedicated to raising awareness and promoting action for environmental protection. It serves as a reminder of the urgent need to address environmental challenges and adopt sustainable practices to preserve our planet’s natural resources.
“Every year, Earth Day provides an opportunity for us to appreciate our precious natural environment and recommit ourselves to the care of our shared public spaces. Parks is proud to sponsor events like this throughout Queens, filling our public parks with life and joy as we celebrate Mother Nature,” said NYC Parks Queens Borough Commissioner Jackie Langsam. “I encourage New Yorkers of all ages to come out this Earth Day to get their hands dirty with planting and mulching projects, learn about local ecology from our Urban Park Rangers, play jumbo-sized games, and more!”
The Annual Earth Day Celebration offered a wide array of free and fun activities for the whole family, including live music performances, interactive sessions with urban park rangers, a global peace run, various games and activities in which promoted composting, recycling, and planting projects, and sustainability-themed arts and crafts workshops. Through these engaging activities, attendees had the opportunity to learn about environmental conservation, participate in hands-on projects, and explore sustainable living practices.
Council Member Nantasha Williams expressed her enthusiasm for the event by stating“This Earth Day Celebration served as a platform to inspire individuals and families to take action towards protecting our planet. By coming together with our esteemed partners and the community, we can make a meaningful impact and create a more sustainable future for all.”
“Queens is known for its beautiful parks and green spaces being a crucial part of our borough, and importantly, our health and wellbeing; we come together on Earth Day to recognize the importance of our planet and all it provides from fresh air and clean water, to produce and so much more. I hope we can all continue to learn to be better caretakers of our world so that future generations can live their best lives here.” said Senator Leroy Comrie.
“Earth Day serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of environmental stewardship and sustainability. It’s a time to celebrate the beauty of our planet and reaffirm our commitment to taking meaningful action to combat climate change, protect biodiversity, and promote environmental justice,” said Assemblywoman Alicia L. Hyndman. “As Assemblywoman, I am dedicated to advancing policies that prioritize environmental conservation and promote sustainable practices. From advocating for renewable energy initiatives to supporting efforts to reduce plastic pollution, I am committed to working towards a cleaner, healthier planet for all.”
The collaboration with Senator Leroy Comrie, Assembly Member Alicia L. Hyndman, and the NYC Parks Department highlights the collective commitment to environmental stewardship and community engagement, reaffirming their dedication to preserving and protecting our planet for generations to come.
SEQ 3rd Annual Spring Fest & Egg Hunt: A Start to Spring in District 27
April 8th, 2024
Amidst a week of rain, the vibrant spirit of spring blossomed here in Council District 27 with the kickoff of the 3rd Annual Spring Fest & Egg Hunt on Saturday, April 6th at Archie Spigner Park. Families and community leaders came together for this celebratory occasion made possible through the collaborative efforts of Council Member Nantasha Williams, Senator Leroy Comrie, Assembly Member Alicia L. Hyndman, the New York City Parks Department, and Southern Queens Park Association.
February 28th, 2024
In an ever-advancing technological era, the utilization of social media and the digital population is rapidly increasing, especially among our youth. As these platforms become more prevalent, so too do we become increasingly aware of the dangers they pose to our society’s mental well-being. The rise of the national mental health crisis among young people is alarming, and its correlation with social media engagement cannot be ignored. Social media not only impacts mental health but also plays a significant role in influencing crime rates among the youth. In response to this pressing issue, Council Members Nantasha Williams, Althea Stevens, and Kevin Riley are spearheading initiatives to address the detrimental effects of both social media on youth mental health and on crime reduction. Their proposed legislation aims to delve into the root causes of this crisis and implement measures to mitigate its impact on our communities.
January 19th, 2024
I am immensely grateful and honored to continue leading the Committee on Civil and Human Rights for this session.
As Chair, my commitment remains unwavering – I am dedicated to ensuring that the agencies under my purview, EEPC and CCHR, receive not just support but proper funding. This year, I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to work diligently, looking forward to a productive term where I aim to provide the essential resources needed for them to carry out their vital missions effectively. It is crucial that these agencies are equipped to uphold the principles of justice, equality, and human rights in our city. I am enthusiastic about the challenges and opportunities ahead, and I look forward to a year of meaningful progress in advancing the cause of civil and human rights.
December 21st, 2023
On Tuesday, December 19th, 2023, Council Member Nantasha Williams hosted a thought-provoking panel discussion, delving into the enduring influence of hip-hop on politics and social justice, in partnership with Until Freedom and The Gathering for Justice. It was an engaging evening of insightful discussions and reflections on the past, present, and future of this influential cultural movement.
In a continued celebration of the 50th anniversary of Hip-Hop, Council Member Nantasha Williams aimed to centralize thinking around the intersectionality of hip-hop and politics. The panel focused on exploring the artistic origins, evolution, and enduring influence of hip-hop on political dynamics. From its roots in activism to its current impact, attendees discovered how hip-hop continues to shape and respond to the ever-changing political landscape.
Holiday Season in Full Effect in District 27 with Council Member Nantasha Williams
December 18th, 2023
The festive spirit is alive and thriving in District 27, as Council Member Nantasha Williams spearheads two incredible holiday events that brought joy and merriment to the community. These back-to-back celebrations not only brightened the streets but also fostered a sense of togetherness and community spirit.
On December 9th, the Oneness Pentecostal Tabernacle was transformed into a radiant spectacle for the inaugural Holiday Lighting on Linden, a heartwarming celebration marking the first-ever illumination of Linden Blvd during the holiday season. This monumental event was made possible through a collaborative effort with esteemed partners, including the Queens Chamber of Commerce, Blaque Resource Network, Oneness Pentecostal Tabernacle, and the Law Offices of Andrea Gross.
November 14th, 2023
The recent tragedy in our district has left us all in shock and sorrow.
My heart goes out to the families grappling with the devastating loss of their loved ones. In times of such profound grief, our community must unite to offer support and solidarity to those affected. As we await further details from law enforcement, it is crucial that we prioritize the well-being of the families involved and work collectively to provide any necessary assistance. This is a stark reminder of the challenges our community faces, and together, we will navigate these difficult times, offering condolences and standing together in the face of tragedy.
November 2nd, 2023
Following the devastation of Hurricane Ida, the community of Cambria Heights, Queens lost a local landmark on the corner of 222nd Street and 115th Avenue. The dual archways ornamenting the sidewalks of 222nd Street are beautiful public artwork that predates most of the homeowners on the block. Unfortunately, a violent storm battered the aged archways until the eastern archway collapsed in 2021; local residents believe the structural stability of the archways became questionable in 2012 when the same archway saw damage during Superstorm Sandy. Luckily when the infrastructure came down in 2021 no one was hurt but the community lost a treasured possession.
October 12th, 2023
Queens Borough President Donovan Richards and Council Member Nantasha Williams stood alongside esteemed community leaders, local advocates, and dedicated educators today at Delphin H. Greene Playground to celebrate a transformative moment for our community. Thanks to a substantial $7.7 million allocation secured through the unwavering partnership of Queens Borough President Donovan Richards, Speaker Adrienne Adams, and Council Member Nantasha Williams the playground will undergo substantial renovations that will greatly enhance the quality of life for our residents.
September 19th, 2023
Council Member Nantasha Williams presented a monumental $2.8 million check to support the vital resilience upgrades at the Cambria Heights Library. The event marked a remarkable demonstration of unwavering commitment to the community.
City Council Members Honor Hip-Hop with Two Landmark Resolutions
September 15th, 2023
The New York City Council is thrilled to announce the momentous passage of not one, but two extraordinary resolutions, marking a significant milestone in celebration of the 50th Anniversary of Hip-Hop. These resolutions stand as a testament to the enduring and indomitable influence of Hip-Hop, as well as the profound impact of Def Jam Recordings on the music industry, the arts, our cultural tapestry, and the hearts of music enthusiasts spanning the globe.
August 31st, 2023
Council Member Nantasha Williams is thrilled to announce the completion of a beautification project along Jamaica Avenue, a vibrant and bustling corridor that serves as the heart of our community. Through diligent efforts and dedicated advocacy, Council Member Williams secured an allocation of $592,000 with support from Mayor Eric Adams during her first year in the NYC Council – FY 2022-2023 – directing funding towards the Parks Department for the purpose of enhancing the aesthetic appeal and environmental quality of Jamaica Avenue.
August 31st, 2023
Council Member Nantasha Williams hosted a Check Ceremony at Harvard Playground, located at 90-73 179th Pl, Queens, NY 11432, to commemorate the allocation of $2.755 million in capital funding for the reconstruction of the playground. The event marked a pivotal moment in the District’s community development.
August 28th, 2023
Council Member Williams of District 27 is delighted to announce the resounding success of the Rain Barrel Distribution event held in collaboration with the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and Morning Star Baptist Church. The event occurred on August 27th at the Morning Star Baptist Church Parking lot, 11444 Merrick Blvd, Queens, NY 11434, where we were proud to distribute 100 rain barrels to our constituents.
August 28th, 2023
Council Member Nantasha Williams in partnership with Senator Leroy Comrie, Assemblywoman Alicia Hyndman and Council Member Rita Joseph conducted a successful 2nd Annual Back-to-School Giveaway & Block Party on Sunday, August 20th from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM in front of her district office on Linden Blvd and Marne Place, Jamaica,NY 11434. The event brought together the community, local businesses, and esteemed partners to provide essential school supplies to almost three hundred children of District 27 in preparation for the upcoming academic year.
August 11th, 2023
Council Member Nantasha Williams, in collaboration with Malikah Safety Center for Women, held a highly successful self-defense training event at Masjid Ar-Rahman on August 10th. The event aimed to empower women with essential self-defense skills and enhance their personal safety in the community.
August 7th, 2023
Council Member Nantasha Williams partnered with the Jamaica Center for Arts and Learning (JCAL) to present a special exhibition at the highly anticipated Jamaica JAMS Festival to mark the 50th anniversary of Hip-Hop, a cultural movement that has transformed the world’s music and art scene. Their goal was to shine a spotlight on the incredible talent of the local community, providing a platform for aspiring artists to showcase their creativity and passion.
August 2nd, 2023
In a display of community collaboration, Council Member Nantasha Williams led a highly successful Safe Pop-up Disposal Event on Saturday, July 29th in the parking lot of the Roy Wilkins Recreation Center. DSNY hosts SAFE (Solvents, Automotive, Flammables, and Electronics) Disposal events every spring and fall. Events are held in all five boroughs, and NYC residents can drop off chemical products, medical waste, and electronics. This event was organized in partnership with the Department of Sanitation, Senator Leroy Comrie, and Assembly Member Alicia L. Hyndman. The overwhelming community support further bolstered the event’s impact, attracting over 100 residents eager to responsibly dispose of old household products.
July 27th, 2023
Council Member Williams hosted a successful Mobile Office Event in collaboration with Queens Public Library at its Central location at 89-11 Merrick Boulevard, Jamaica, NY 11432. The event, held from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, aimed to provide essential assistance and representation to the underserved and vulnerable community of District 27. This initiative was specifically designed to offer personalized one-on-one support to older community members facing difficult cases or requiring representation with city agencies.
July 17th, 2023
Council Member Nantasha Williams, Council Member Farah Louis, Council Member Kevin Riley, and Council Member Althea Stevens marked the end of the Citywide Teen Entrepreneurship Program funded by the NYC Council in City Hall conducted by ‘Partners Uplifting Our Daughters and Sons’. Dr. Jamila Davis and ‘Partners Uplifting Our Daughters and Sons’ (EGL PUD) developed a teen entrepreneur program that helped start dozens of small businesses across the City in close partnership with local schools in the Bronx, Brooklyn and Queens.
July 12th, 2023
Council Member Williams is thrilled to conduct a successful Fair Housing Celebration in partnership with the NYC Commission on Human Rights (CCHR). This event focused on serving the community, aims to provide crucial housing information and resources to constituents in Councilmanic District 27. With housing affordability reaching critical levels and information gaps persisting, this collaborative effort seeks to empower constituents and improve their quality of life.
June 29th, 2023
As the Chair of the Civil and Human Rights Committee, I am deeply disheartened by the overturn of affirmative action in higher education.
It reflects a setback in our journey towards inclusivity and undermines the principles of diversity and equal opportunity in which we strive for. Racial segregation denies students of color the chances to fully engage in education and limits their access to crucial resources and opportunities for personal and professional growth. It perpetuates systemic barriers and racial disparities. We have a collective responsibility to dismantle these barriers and promote inclusive environments that value diversity. Despite this unjustified decision, I do hope institutions continue to operate in ways that maximize diversity and equity for students who have been historically underrepresented.
June 29th, 2023
A highly impactful Community Convo re: Environmental Justice was held yesterday, June 26th, in collaboration with Brinkerhoff Action Association to address critical issues surrounding waste transfer stations, air quality, and other pressing environmental justice matters affecting our community. “A step in the direction of the community needs is a step in the right direction,” as stated by Walter Dogan, of Brinkerhoff Action Association. The event, attended by concerned residents, local organizations, and government officials, provided a platform for open dialogue, informed discussions, and the identification of concrete steps to address these challenges.
June 13th, 2023
On June 1st, 2023 Council Member Nantasha Williams in collaboration with NYC Parks Department and the Department of Education, hosted a seed planting project, aimed at educating and empowering third graders from South East Queens, at Roy Wilkins Park. A total of 81 enthusiastic children, with 20 participants selected from each of four (4) public schools in the district, were actively engaged in this exciting initiative. By teaching the importance and benefits of planting seeds and trees, Council Member Williams, in partnership with NYC Parks, is cultivating a generation of environmentally conscious young individuals who will make a positive impact on their surroundings and inspire their families to do the same.
May 26th, 2023
The Office of Council Member Nantasha Williams is pleased to announce her highly successful Constituent Services event held on May 25th at the Greater Allen A.M.E. Cathedral of New York Church. This event was made possible through a collaboration with the MET Council, who provided representatives from their office to assist constituents of District 27 with a range of essential services.
This event aimed to address the immediate needs of community members and provide valuable support in various areas. The MET Council representatives offered their expertise and guidance to these individuals facing challenges such as job loss, income instability, and the need for bill payment assistance. They provided crisis intervention services, helping constituents navigate through these difficult situations and identify the next steps towards financial stability.
Council Member Nantasha Williams Hosts 2nd Annual Community Health Fair
May 24th, 2023
On Saturday, May 6th, Council Member Nantasha Williams hosted her 2nd Annual Community Health Fair at Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church. This event included various vendors, giveaways, community resources and had a primary focus on the importance of eye care. Overall, it was a major success! “I am truly grateful for the amazing turnout for our 2nd Annual Community Health Fair!” said Council Member Williams. “The health and wellness of the members of my District are of immense importance to me. This event had a wonderful display of resources and information regarding various health concerns. Additionally, thank you to Dr. Daniel Laroche and his team for coming out to perform eye screenings. I am already looking forward to next year!”
May 24th, 2023
On April 19, 2023, the Sheriff’s Joint Compliance Task Force, comprised of the Sheriff’s Office along with the New York City Police Department (NYPD), Department of Consumer Worker Protection (DCWP), and the New York State Office of Cannabis Management (OCM), conducted smoke shop inspections of unlicensed locations in District 27.
The inspections were conducted as part of Mayor Eric Adams’ initiative to combat the proliferation of unlicensed and unregulated cannabis sales, and the Sheriff’s Office is leading the task force to ensure that these inspections are conducted daily.
May 12th, 2023
I am deeply saddened to share with you a tragic incident that unfolded last night in our community. At approximately 8:30 p.m. on Wednesday, a 16-year-old girl was tragically shot in the head on Lucas Street near 121st Avenue in St. Albans, Queens.
According to authorities, the young girl was sitting in a car outside P.S. 015 Jackie Robinson when she was struck by a single gunshot. This senseless act of violence has left us all in shock and mourning. Our hearts go out to the victim and her family as they face this unimaginable tragedy.
April 20th, 2023
Council Member Nantasha Williams held her first State of the District address, part of her Community Convo’s Series on Wednesday, April 12, 2023, at York College. It was such a full circle moment as this event was held at the same venue she had her inauguration in 2021. During her address, she highlighted her accomplishments within her first year serving in office. As the first Black woman to represent District 27, Council Member Williams has made significant strides in addressing the quality of life issues facing her constituents.
One of the main themes of Council Member Williams’ speech was her commitment to providing the members of District 27 a platform to address their concerns and issues to their elected officials. She initially launched her Community Convo series to allow residents to have a voice and bring real change to their communities, and plans to continue hosting these events throughout the year.