By Edwin Freeman
Photos: Edwin Freeman
In the race to replace outgoing African American woman Council Member Adrienne Adams in Queens City Council District 28, one candidate stands apart—not just for her policies, but for who she is and the voice she represents. Latoya LeGrand emerges as the only African American woman in this critical race, poised to continue the legacy of strong Black female leadership that our district needs and deserves.
From NYCHA to City Hall: A Journey Rooted in Lived Experience
LeGrand’s story resonates with the experiences of countless Southeast Queens families. Raised in NYCHA housing and navigating the foster care system, she transformed personal hardship into a powerful drive for community service. As a single mother who understands the challenges of raising children while fighting for a better community, LeGrand brings an authenticity to her campaign that other candidates simply cannot match.
“As someone who grew up in NYCHA and is a single mother, I’m deeply passionate about housing justice, education equity, and youth empowerment,” LeGrand shares. “My lived experience drives my commitment to creating policies that support working families, protect tenants and homeowners, and expand access to mental health, job training, and childcare.”
Housing Justice Starts with Understanding
When LeGrand speaks about housing being a human right, it’s not political rhetoric—it’s personal conviction born from experience. In a district where many families struggle with unaffordable rents and unsafe conditions, her firsthand knowledge of housing insecurity makes her uniquely qualified to fight for tenants’ rights and NYCHA reforms.
“Through strong local leadership, budget advocacy, and legislative action,” she promises, “I will ensure that the needs of District 28’s tenants and public housing residents are not ignored.” This commitment comes from someone who has walked those hallways and lived those struggles—not just studied them.
Education: More Than Just Test Scores
As Education Chair of Community Board 12Q and founder of a youth-focused nonprofit, LeGrand has consistently fought for our children’s futures. Her vision for education acknowledges that our schools need “resources, creativity, and care”—not just higher test scores.
Her work mentoring youth in NYCHA developments and advocating for families navigating the education system demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of what our children need to thrive. LeGrand’s commitment to “equitable education, robust after-school programming, and real pathways to opportunity” offers practical solutions for families feeling left behind.
Respecting Our Elders: The Backbone of Southeast Queens
LeGrand’s platform recognizes that our community’s elders deserve more than basic services—they deserve “care, respect, and inclusion.” Her commitment to policies that protect seniors and invest in their well-being reflects the values of a community where respect for elders runs deep.
Power of the Purse: Budget Priorities That Matter
“Many people don’t realize that City Council Members have a major role in the city budget,” LeGrand explains. “We decide how billions of dollars are spent each year, including funding for schools, housing, youth programs, and local nonprofits.”
As the only African American woman in the race, LeGrand brings a perspective that is critical to ensuring these budget priorities truly reflect our community’s needs. Her pledge to bring “real investment and accountability to Southeast Queens” means resources directed where they’re needed most.
Building on a Legacy of Black Female Leadership
With the departure of Council Member Adrienne Adams, District 28 stands at a crossroads. The question isn’t just about policies—it’s about representation. In a district with a significant African American population, maintaining Black female leadership ensures our community’s unique challenges and strengths remain central to Council deliberations.
LeGrand has earned endorsements that speak to her effectiveness as an advocate, including support from the Working Families Party, Citizens Action, PSC-CUNY, The New Majority, and NYS Senator James Sanders. These endorsements affirm what many in the community already know: LeGrand isn’t just the right choice—she’s the necessary choice for continuing the fight for equity and opportunity.
A Different Kind of Leadership
“I bring lived experience, deep community roots, and a track record of service,” LeGrand states. “I listen, I organize, and I build coalitions. I’m committed to co-governance because I believe leadership means bringing people in—not speaking for them, but working with them to create lasting change.”
In a political landscape where too many decisions are made about us without us, LeGrand’s commitment to co-governance represents the kind of inclusive leadership our community desperately needs.
As Southeast Queens prepares to choose its next Council representative, the opportunity to elect another strong African American woman who truly understands our community’s struggles and strengths shouldn’t be overlooked. Latoya LeGrand offers not just policies, but perspective—not just promises, but proven dedication to our community’s wellbeing.
Learn more about, and get involved, in Latoya LeGrand’s campaign.
