“Musicians for Tish James”

Local 802 Union, American Federation of Musicians, Endorses James for NYC Public Advocate

April 22, 2013 (New York, NY) – Today, Councilwoman Letitia “Tish” James’ campaign for New York City Public Advocate announced that James has been endorsed by New York’s musicians union, Local 802.

“Local 802 AFM is proud to endorse Tish James in her race to become the next Public Advocate of New York City,” said Local 802 President Tino Gagliardi. “We saw first-hand her ability to get things done for working families as a member of the New York City Council. Whether tackling affordable housing issues or standing up for education, she repeatedly demonstrated a commitment to the advancement of artists and performers across our great city.”

Local 802 is part of the American Federation of Musicians and represents 8,500 members.

“I’m honored to earn the support of New York’s musicians, who, along with other artists, makeup the cultural and economic bedrock of our city. As a City Council member, I’ve fought to improve the lives of middle-class and low-income New Yorkers, passing the Safe Housing Act, preserving funding for after-school and arts programs, and standing up for social and economic justice for all. I’ll bring the same passion and values to the Office of the Public Advocate.”

Local 802’s show of support comes on the heels of recent endorsements by labor unions including SEIU 32BJ, CWA 1180, UAW, DC 1707 and numerous elected officials including fellow Councilmembers Maria del Carmen Arroyo, Melissa Mark-Viverito, and Sara Gonzalez. Last week, Democracy for New York City (DFNYC), a group dedicated to advancing progressive issues in New York, also endorsed Tish James for Public Advocate.

About Tish James: A Brooklyn native, Tish James has been a long-time public servant. Prior to being elected City Councilwoman in 2003, James was a top-level aide to members of the State Assembly, where she played a crucial role in bringing resources to some of New York’s most vulnerable communities. In the City Council, James has been an outspoken advocate for economic and social justice.