GAC Mayoral Candidate Forum

On Sunday, February 23, 2025, the Greater Allen AME Cathedral of New York (GAC) will bring together leading mayoral candidates for a highly anticipated forum at its main headquarters in Jamaica, Queens. This forum is designed to empower community members by offering firsthand insights into each candidate’s stance on critical topics—ranging from education and public safety to immigration—while also giving residents the opportunity to ask questions that directly impact their families and neighborhoods.

Among the confirmed mayoral candidates are Michael Blake, Jessica Ramos, Brad Lander, Zellnor Myrie, and James Manning, with additional participants expected to be announced soon.

“In the wake of a new political climate, it’s critical that communities of color remain vigilant about how policies and programs affect their daily lives,” said Rev. Stephen Green, Senior Pastor of the Greater Allen AME Cathedral. “Knowing who is behind these decisions is the first step toward ensuring our voices shape a more equitable future.”

The event is spearheaded by the church’s GAC Votes Social Justice Ministry, a non-partisan group committed to voter education and civic engagement. Their recent initiatives include:

• Hosting multiple intergenerational town halls to inspire young voter turnout in the 2024 election
• Leading local canvassing efforts to boost voter awareness
• Conducting over 13,000 calls to remind New Yorkers of the importance of civic participation

“For decades, GAC has brought the community together. As the Black church, we remain committed to championing the needs of our most vulnerable residents,” added Pastor Green. “Whether it’s village elders concerned about Social Security or families worried about educational equity, our mission is to ensure their voices are heard.”

An audience of at least 500 people is expected to attend, and the forum is open to the public. For more information and to stay updated on additional candidate confirmations, visit www.allencathedral.org.

About the Greater Allen AME Cathedral of New York

The Greater Allen AME Cathedral of New York (GAC) is a global faith movement committed to transforming the world through the power of God’s word. Our vision is to empower individuals, families, and communities by fostering a holistic approach to evangelism, education, engagement, and empowerment.

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