Is Mamta Singh the First Indian American Elected in Jersey City?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Mamta Singh is the first Indian American elected in Jersey City.
- Her victory reflects the community's significant impact on the city's culture and economy.
- Singh campaigned on issues important to working families and youth.
- She has a strong background in community advocacy and nonprofit work.
- This election signifies a growing diversity in local governance.
Washington, Dec 4 (NationPress) In a historic achievement for one of the largest centers of the Indian American community in the U.S., Mamta Singh has secured a Council At-Large position in Jersey City this week, making her the first Indian American to hold public office in the city's history.
This significant victory occurred during a night marked by considerable political changes, with reform-oriented Councilmember James Solomon claiming the mayoral runoff with a substantial mandate. However, for the Indian American diaspora, Singh's success was the highlight of the evening.
Jersey City, often referred to as 'Little India'—particularly in the area known as Indian Square—houses tens of thousands of Indian Americans, yet the community has never had one of its own elected to City Hall until now.
Singh's victory not only fills this gap but also represents a long-awaited moment of visibility and representation for a community that has significantly influenced the city's economic and cultural landscape over the years.
Running on the 'Team Solomon' slate alongside Rolando Lavarro and Michael Griffin, Singh focused on key issues such as stabilizing property taxes, expanding youth recreational programs, and enhancing services for working families. Her strong roots in community advocacy truly resonated with families in the diaspora.
A prominent nonprofit leader and organizer, Singh established JCFamilies, one of Jersey City's most active grassroots organizations dedicated to supporting women, children, and working parents.
Furthermore, she founded Indians In Jersey City, an initiative aimed at assisting immigrant families and preserving Indian culture through local festivals, gatherings, and community discussions. Over the years, she has become a vital link for newly arrived immigrants and long-term residents navigating schools, services, and urban life.
Singh's groundbreaking win coincided with Solomon's decisive triumph over former New Jersey Governor Jim McGreevey.