Widespread Support for Newton City Council Candidate Tarik Lucas

“As a longtime Newton resident, I wholeheartedly endorse Tarik Lucas for Newton City Council,” says Brita E. Lundberg. “He will bring a fresh and more representative voice of the community on issues such as police reform to sustainability to education.” Brita Lundberg’s enthusiasm reflects Newton’s widespread support for Tarik’s candidacy for the open Ward 2 At-Large seat on the City Council in the Special Election on March 16th. So far, 96% of Tarik’s campaign contributions have come from Newton residents, evidence of the depth of his support in the city.

Many of Tarik’s Ward 2 neighbors want him to be their representative on the City Council. Ward 2 Councilor Emily Norton says, “I’m supporting Tarik because he understands at a deep level that this job is about service. It’s about serving the people of Newton. Tarik wants to represent people, and make local government work for people.” In 2017 Tarik was elected to the Newtonville Area Council, and eight of the members, such as Peter Bruce and Martina Jackson, have endorsed Tarik. “He is a real hands-on leader,” says Martina. “Tarik helped survey thousands of residents about what kind of development they would want to see along Washington Street. Many residents said it was the first time anyone from the city had asked their opinion on anything. Tarik listens, and that is a vital quality in a City Councilor.”

City Councilors from other wards also support Tarik: Marc Laredo and Lisle Baker from Ward 7 and Julia Malakie and Pam Wright from Ward 3. From Ward 4, current City Councilors Lenny Gentile and Chris Markiewicz have endorsed Tarik, as has former Councilor Amy Sangiolo, who says, “He is an active and engaged resident who will bring our issues and concerns to the table - not just his own agenda.” In fact, over 40 current and former elected officials in Newton are endorsing Tarik in this race.

Members of various civic groups sprinkled throughout the city know Tarik will bring valuable skills and a unique perspective to the City Council. Bob Burke, Groot Gregory, and Nathaniel Lichtin from the Newton Highlands Area Council have declared their support. According to Burke, “Tarik doesn’t tell people what he thinks they want to hear; he is always eager to talk to people with opposing viewpoints to find common ground and to broaden the depth of his own knowledge and understanding.” Renande Loayza, Democratic party activist from Ward 3 says, “As an immigrant, as a mother, as a social activist, as someone who cares about education, I believe electing Tarik Lucas puts us on a good path.”

This press release was produced by the Committee to Elect Tarik Lucas. The views expressed here are the author's own.