By Duane Frankson, Esq., Judicial Candidate for 7th Municipal District
Congratulations Brooklyn on a primary election noted by historically high turnout. Why didn’t you see my name on the ballot for the primary? As it turns out I am the only democratic candidate for Brooklyn’s 7thMunicipal District Court Civil Court seat and in the interest of economy, the Board of Elections cancelled the primary advancing me to the general election.
Despite the cancelled primary, we were out in the community encouraging people to vote and talking about why voting consistently is critical. Voting is not only about who is on the ballot. Voting is one way the government gauges the needs of our community. Voting educates our elected officials by giving them the data needed to understand the “lived experiences” of their constituents. When election participation is consistently low a gap between the “representatives” and the “represented” starts to develop. These gaps often cause misunderstandings that prevent communities’ needs from being effectively addressed.
While campaigning, I continue to listen and learn from the community members in Bushwick, East New York, Cypress Hills, and Brownsville. I have spoken with people that see voting as an honor and I have heard from people who believe voting is pointless. I can appreciate the frustration that leads to the latter position, but how do we know voting does not work if we do not try it? I am not suggesting that one election with a high turnout is going to change anything, rather shooting for high voter turnout in every election is the change that can change everything.
I will be on the ballot in November and between now and the general election we will continue to reach out and encourage greater civic engagement as a strategy for better communities. Won’t you join us in this work? Three commitments that can help move us forward are:
Voting:
Register to vote. If you are already registered, check your status with the Board of Elections to avoid delays when you vote. If you experience any frustration at your election site complete the provisional ballot and contact the Board of Elections with your concerns.
Community Boards:
Contact your community board and attend the meetings regularly. Community Boards are our most immediate point of contact to community resources including programs and information that can help you find help with a number of challenges. Community Boards meet once a month and have a variety of committees. I have always left Community Board meetings feeling informed and empowered. You can find your Community Board by calling 311 or online at NYC.GOV
Advocate:
I have found that meaningful conversations are essential to reinforcing the bonds that support community. Talk with your family and friends. Talk with your elected officials. Talk with your community leaders. Let us normalize the topic of civic engagement and lovingly hold each other accountable to do our respective part.
What do you think? We will be hosting a community “Meet and Greet” at BKLYN Blend on July 31, 2025, 6pm-8pm. Please share your thoughts on the need to have more civic engagement and any ideas you have to help increase election participation.
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