Judy Pineda Neufeld Announces Bid For Somerville City Council

SOMERVILLE, MA — Judy Pineda Neufeld, a small business owner and former executive director of Emerge Massachusetts, announced her campaign for City Council in Ward 7 this week. Neufeld, an advocate for equity and justice, led Somerville's Immigrant Services Unit as part of the city's COVID-19 response work.

"Somerville is more than just the city we live in: it’s our community. And this community needs thriving small businesses, safer streets, green spaces, and affordable neighborhoods," Neufeld said in a release. "I'm running for city council because I care deeply about making our community a better place to live, work, and thrive. I believe equity and justice are not just boxes to check on a to-do list, but rather a lens by which I live and lead. As the proud daughter of immigrants and a Jewish-Mexican-American woman, I bring a keen understanding of equity and cultural competency that helps me understand and value diverse perspectives and find commonalities where others cannot."

Through a collaborative group of city and school staff and partners, Neufeld has figured out ways to bring much-needed resources and services to immigrant families, and in turn has supported 'some of the city’s most marginalized community members.

Judy has fought hard for immigrants and BIPOC people in and out of city hall. Her voice on the city council will ensure the voices of our most vulnerable populations are being heard," immigrant rights activist Ben Echevarria said in a statement.

As former executive director of Emerge Massachusetts and senior advisor to the national organization, Neufeld has recruited, trained, and supported thousands of women in their campaigns to run for office. Under her leadership, Emerge saw the most diverse class of candidates running for office and winning.

More information about Judy Pineda Neufeld can be found at www.judyforsomerville.com.