Julissa Ferreras

Julissa Ferreras is a Democratic member of the New York City Council residing in and representing the 21st district of Queens, which includes Elmhurst, Corona, East Elmhurst, and Jackson Heights.^[1]

Early career

Her career started as the leader of the Corona Youth Council at the age of 14, a community organization. She later moved on to the Presidency of the NAACP Youth Council for Corona and East Elmhurst, a chapter of the NAACP.

Later on, after graduating from high school, she became an After School Director of a Beacon program housed in one of the most crowded public school in the world, Public School 19Q.

As Beacon Director she was in charge of coordinating the after-school activities of dozens of children. She made sure there were board games for them to play, that there was a place in the cafeteria for them to do homework, and that snacks and juice were available.

Political career

Her political career officially commenced in 2001 when she became a Democratic National Convention delegate appointed by Assemblyman Ivan Lafayette. She then became the chief of staff and campaign manager for her then-predecessor Councilman Hiram Monserrate. She briefly left the public sector and went on to become the New York Director of the National Association of Latino Elected Officials for two years.

Steven Castro Controversy

In September 2009, Ferreras' district office hired Steven Castro, a man with cerebral palsey. Castro's conducts clerical work, and as of March 3, 2010 he has not received a pay check. Along with not paying Castro, his hours have been reduced which prevents him from receiving health benefits. Ferreras's office claims that Castro has not received a pay due to a clerical error, and that Castro will received full back pay.^[2] In October 2010, Steven Castro filed a lawsuit in federal court against Ferreras.^[3]

References

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