Bangledeshis Increase Their Role in New York Politics

October 3, 2003

Source: Bangla Patrika

http://www.indypressny.org/article.php3?ArticleID=1085

On October 3, 2003 Bangla Patrika reported that immigrant Bangladeshis are gradually becoming more active in mainstream politics by working behind the scenes with both Republican and Democratic candidates. According to the article, "at night, one can find Assembly member James Brennan (D-Brooklyn) or Councilman Bill de Blasio (D-Brooklyn) deeply engaged in chats with Bangladeshis at the Jhinuk Restaurant in Brooklyn. Councilman James Gennaro (D-Queens) is seen everywhere... Rep. Joseph Crowley (D-New York), rushed to a folk song conference arranged by Bangladeshis last week. Rep. Major Owens (D-New York) was seen rushing to a meeting arranged by Bangladeshis living in Brooklyn. Councilman Gennaro openly claims that he is a “Bangladeshi” councilman. " In addition, a "Bangladeshi Caucus" has formed to encourage Bangledeshis to vote for candidates invested in their community.