As the first primary election approaches on June 24, 2025, in New York City, voters will soon determine the nominees for several key city offices, including mayor, comptroller, public advocate, and city council seats.
Caribbean Life newspaper spoke with Jamell N.A. Henderson, one of the candidates vying for a city council position.
“Change begins with one —therefore, it shall begin with me,” said Henderson in his interview with Caribbean Life.
Henderson is running for the City Council seat in District 41, currently held by Council Member Darlene Mealy.
He is driven by a lifelong commitment to public service, civic engagement, and community advocacy. Henderson cites a deep spiritual conviction and a calling from God as the timing behind his decision to enter the race, noting that his journey through community leadership and activism revealed the persistent neglect and lack of genuine leadership in his district. Witnessing continued suffering, voter apathy, and broken promises has pushed him to take action.
Henderson’s ties to District 41 — which includes Brownsville, East New York, and parts of Canarsie — are personal and longstanding. From growing up on Albany Avenue in East Flatbush to living in NYCHA Kingsborough Houses after aging out of foster care, he has lived the challenges facing constituents. His firsthand experiences with poverty, systemic neglect, and institutional failure have fueled his passion for transformative leadership.
His campaign is grounded in what he calls the “Henderson Vision Plan,” aimed at revitalizing the district through intentional economic development, youth and senior engagement, and cultural preservation — particularly of Caribbean traditions such as Carnival. He plans to support local small businesses, fund long-overlooked community-based organizations, and restore pride and morale across the district. He emphasizes his plans to uplift youth with constructive programs and to prioritize the needs of older adults.
Henderson positions himself as a stark contrast to the incumbent, Council Member Darlene Mealy. He pledges an approach rooted in consistency, accessibility, and genuine connection. He aims to treat each constituent as part of a village that deserves to be seen, heard, and served with respect and dignity. His campaign emphasizes visibility—attending local events, supporting residents at the grassroots level, and being fully engaged in the life of the district.
When addressing systemic issues like affordable housing, underfunded infrastructure, and limited mental health resources, Henderson proposes action through policy, funding, and public education. He seeks to demystify local government for residents and create inclusive forums where community members can share their voices and solutions. His goal is to translate policy language into terms the community can understand and act on.
Henderson’s resume reflects years of advocacy for housing justice, youth empowerment, and racial equity. A former foster youth, he has dedicated his life to public service, earning multiple academic degrees and recognition for his activism. His efforts have been featured in prominent outlets including The New York Times, amNewYork, and HuffPost, and he has received awards and citations from President Obama, Mayor Bloomberg, and various local officials.
As an educator, speaker, and mentor, Henderson has inspired many through workshops and keynote addresses, urging the next generation to engage in civic life. From local schools to college campuses, his message has been consistent: change starts with one. And as a proud Brooklyn native with lived experience and a proven record of advocacy, Henderson believes that he is that “one” ready to bring real, people-centered leadership to District 41.
