Letter From Norman: Today Is Election Day - Please Vote

Dear Friends and Supporters,

Today is Election Day, and polls are open until 9PM.

Over the last months, as I campaigned the length and breath of our great city, one question gets asked repeatedly: Why do I seek the office of Public Advocate?

My decision to enter the race to become your next Public Advocate was made for me. It was made by the thousands of senior citizens who are fearful they may be forced out of their homes. It was made by the members of the HIV/AIDS community, who struggle daily to find dignity in the face of terrible prejudice. It was made by parents, who feel boxed out of their own children's education. It was made by outraged communities, struggling against a city government and powerful real estate developers that abuse eminent domain. It was made because in spite of the tragic, terrible deaths of young men like Sean Bell and Amadou Diallo, the NYPD continues its 'stop and frisk'/racial profiling practices - this kind of discrimination is illegal and it is wrong. It was made by every man, woman and child who has been the victim of discrimination because of the color of their skin, their gender, age, disability, religion or sexual orientation.

I am a lucky man. I grew up at a time when good union jobs made it possible for my parents to provide real opportunity for their kids. I got a world-class education in New York City Public Schools from kindergarten right through Brooklyn College.

Today New York has a very different landscape. A weakened economy has had a huge impact on our city and that great American Dream of secure jobs, good, affordable housing, and educational opportunity seems further and further away. But that does not mean we should dream smaller or settle for less. We must dedicate ourselves to be even more pro-active and expansive to insure that opportunity and equality are enjoyed by all New Yorkers, not just the powerful and privileged. Now is the time to Demand More!

I urge you to go to the polls today. Send emails and make phone calls to remind your friends and family that today is Primary Day, and ask them to vote for me. Every vote counts and I am counting on you.

With my sincerest thanks to all of you for your wonderful enthusiasm and support,

Norman