BLAC releases manifesto guide to political offices, calls for reimagining offices

The Black Leadership Action Coalition (BLAC), together with its sister organization The Black Institute (TBI), has a release a political manifesto encompassing an educational and political vision of New York.

While disclosing this in a statement on Thursday February 11, 2021, its Founder and President, Bertha Lewis, said that the manifesto, entitled “The BLAC Manifesto”, outlines a bold new political agenda and reimagining of the political structure of New York and New York City.

He added that while it is not the Black Agenda, an all-encompassing look at the multitude of issues that confront these communities, it is a Black Agenda; a view of policy and politics from a Black perspective.

“We have hundreds of people running for office in New York City this year, and some of them don’t even know the responsibilities of the job they’re trying to be elected to.

“This Manifesto is a way to educate people not just on the issues that matter to black and brown New Yorkers, but a guide on what level of government can get it done. For those offices that hold no power to accomplish these goals, it is a call to reimagine those offices and give them real power to get things done,” Lewis said.

Following an extended analysis of every elected office representing New York City, from District Leader to President, the Manifesto includes high priority issues and how they can be tackled at each level.

Each issue area includes background and analysis, policy making goals, and legislation that accomplishes those goals.

Issues at the state level include COVID-19 relief for minority-owned small businesses, equitable and transparent banking relationships.

Other issues include raids on minority businesses, legalization of marijuana and unequal access to the internet as well as housing reform.

Issues at the city level include environmental racism in the form of pesticide distribution, housing reform, property taxes, immigrant voting, police reform.

Lewis explained that issues at the federal level include legalization of marijuana, reparations, Visas DACA, voting rights and police reform.

As a conclusion to the manifesto, BLAC calls for a reimagining of the offices of Public Advocate and Borough President, which currently hold little power.

Under the proposal, the Public Advocate would have the power to introduce legislation to the City Council for serious consideration and be responsible for operation and oversight of the 311 system.

New powers for Borough Presidents include a restoration of old powers from the initial city charter that grants greater power over land use decisions. The Manifesto also calls for the elimination of Mayoral control of the city’s school system and the reinstatement of school boards.