Meet Ras J. Baraka
Before he was the Mayor of New Jersey’s largest city, Ras J. Baraka was a poet, an activist, a coach, a mentor, a teacher, and a principal. He’s also a member of Alpha Phi Alpha - America’s first intercollegiate Greek-letter fraternity established for African American men.
Becoming mayor in 2014, Ras drove violent crime to a 60-year low, strengthened Newark’s economy - uplifting surrounding communities - and replaced over 23,000 lead pipes to ensure clean, safe drinking water, at no cost to the residents. He sets the standard for real, transformational change in New Jersey and will do even more as our next governor.
Key Baraka Achievements as Mayor of Newark
Reduced violent crime to a 60 year low through community based violence intervention and policing.
Mandated 20% of developments be affordable housing - the state of New Jersey now requires the same, taken from the success of Newark’s policy.
Reduced chronic street homelessness by 60%.
Strengthened Newark’s economy by attracting businesses, building community partners and creating thousands of new jobs for Newark residents.
Replaced 23,000 lead service lines in three years, when the state said it would take 10, at no cost to the residents.
Implemented major green initiatives, including Newark’s first-ever climate action plan.
Launched programs to support small businesses and entrepreneurs. Most notably, supported Black and brown and women owned businesses to the tune of $132m over 4 years.
Gave out over one million meals during COVID-19 pandemic.
Newark’s skyline is going to change for the first time in over 100 years.