One of the lions of Harlem’s political establishment has announced she will retire. New York State Assembly Member Inez Dickens will retire at the end of her term.

Inez Dickens is a lifelong resident of Harlem, and spent much of her adult life in politics. Born in 1949, she entered politics in 1990, starting as a state committeewoman and district leader, gradually rising through the ranks.

In 2006, Dickens became the City Councilmember for Harlem’s 9th community council district - encompassing Harlem, Morningside Heights, and parts of the Upper West Side. She quickly rose to leadership positions, serving as majority whip and chair of the Committee on Standards and Ethics. Her influence grew further when she became the first African-American woman to hold the positions of deputy majority leader and chair of the Subcommittee on Planning, Dispositions, and Concessions. During her tenure, Dickens tackled crucial issues like affordable housing, education, and economic development, leaving a lasting mark on the communities she served.

Now, looking at retirement, the Assemblymember for NYS’s 70th district, Dickens has promised to continue her fight for a more equitable New York by focusing on Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprises (MWBEs), ensuring fair wages for Harlem’s residents and promoting inclusion and diversity.

Throughout her career, Inez Dickens has been a powerful voice for Harlem, leaving a legacy of dedication, advocacy, and the tireless pursuit of a better future for her community.

And the Contenders Weigh In…

Joshua Clennon, a housing advocate and community organizer, issued a warm tribute to Inez Dickens and her public service to the Harlem community, and as quoted in the New York Daily News, he described Dickens as

In contrast, Maria Ordoñez was quoted as saying that:

Shana Harmongoff, another candidate for Dickens’ assembly seat, noted that Dickens is:

A fourth potential candidate who has not yet officially declared his candidacy, Keith Wright, thanked the Assembly Member for: