LANGLEY PARK, MD – The Board of CASA in Action has voted to endorse this cycle’s inspiring slate of candidates who will champion the priorities of immigrant and working families. CASA in Action will launch an assertive, multilayered voter contact program that combines integrated field operations and dynamic communications outreach to empower, inspire, and turn out Black and Latino voters in the primary elections.
The Board of CASA in Action has endorsed:
US House of Representatives, MD District 2 –Johnny Olszewski
Johnny Olszewski has a long history of leadership as a public servant. Currently, he’s the Baltimore County Executive. Prior to this role, he served two terms in MD’s House of Delegates representing District 6. As a former teacher, he has a heart for students, especially those who learn differently. As a supporter of immigrants, he created a New American task force to learn about and support the needs and obstacles faced by migrants and new arrivals to Maryland. CASA in Action is proud to endorse Johnny Olszewski.
“CASA in Action is proud to endorse County Executive Olszewski’s bid for Congress, recognizing his steadfast representation of our community. His intentional service of marginalized communities during the pandemic, support for pro-immigrant legislation in Annapolis, and his track record on supporting federal immigration reform, all exemplify his advocacy for the interests of District 2’s Black and Latino/a/e constituents.” said CASA in Action Board President, Gustavo Torres.
Baltimore City Council, President – Zeke Cohen
Zeke Cohen has consistently demonstrated strong support and allyship with CASA in Action members, establishing himself as a committed advocate for Baltimore’s immigrant community. His proactive engagement in addressing crises affecting constituents targeted by ICE, participation in civil disobedience alongside activists for federal immigration reform, and leadership of numerous progressive campaigns underscore his dedication. Through these actions, Zeke Cohen has gained both the trust and respect of CASA in Action.
Baltimore City Council, District 1 – Mark Parker
For years Mark Parker has lived his commitment to service. As a pastor, he helped develop a preschool in Southeast Baltimore. He believes in uplifting and amplifying the voices of marginalized members of the community. During the height of the pandemic, he supported his congregants by delivering critical services. These are just a few of the reasons why CASA in Action is proud to endorse Mark Parker.
Baltimore City Council, District 3 – Ryan Dorsey
Incumbent Council Member Ryan Dorsey is running for re-election. During his time on the council, he has been a champion for Baltimore’s immigrants and working-class Black and Brown families. CASA in Action is proud to endorse Ryan Dorsey.
Baltimore City Council, District 4 – Mark Conway
While Council Member Mark Conway is running unopposed in his election, CASA in Action is proud to endorse him. Environmental justice is a key priority for CASA in Action. As the Executive Vice President for the Chesapeake Conservancy, Council Member Conway is committed to the environmental health of Baltimore and the state of Maryland.
Baltimore City Council, District 6 – Sharon G. Middleton
Council Member Sharon Middleton is running for re-election to represent Baltimore’s District 6. She is the current Council Vice President. She has long been a champion of immigrant and working-class Black and Brown communities. She is strongly endorsed by labor unions, including the AFL-CIO, and a supporter of rent stabilization and housing justice. CASA in Action is proud to endorse her.
Baltimore City Council, District 8 – Paris Gray
Paris Gray is a Baltimore native. For four years, he’s served the district faithfully as the Community Outreach Coordinator. During this time he’s built a strong relationship with the immigrant community. Additionally, he’s endorsed by current Council members Kristerfer Burnett and Odette Ramos as well as the Metro Baltimore Council of the AFL-CIO.
Baltimore City Council, District 9 – John Bullock
Incumbent John Bullock, has once again received an endorsement from CASA in Action. During his time on the council, he has continued to demonstrate his commitment to immigrant and working-class Black and brown communities. In addition to serving on the council, he’s held positions on the Executive Committee, Baltimore City NAACP, and President, Evergreen Protective Association. A first generation college student, this Hampton University alumni is an adjunct professor at Towson University, proving his commitment to educating future generations of leaders.
Baltimore City Council, District 10 – Phylicia Porter
District 10 Council Member Phylicia Porter has received the endorsement of CASA in Action as she runs for re-election. For many years, Council Member Porter has built a strong relationship with Baltimore’s immigrant community. She proudly boasts a strong track record on issues related to healthcare, the environment, and working class families, earning endorsements from both the AFL-CIO and the Sierra Club.
Baltimore City Council, District 12 – Jermaine Jones
CASA in Action is proud to endorse Jermaine Jones. A lifelong Baltimore resident, he has worked tirelessly for immigrant and working class Black and brown communities. Jermaine was elected the first president of color of the Metro Baltimore Council AFL-CIO union. He previously served as a community organizer for Laborers International Union North America (LIUNA). He also supported the establishment of the CASA work center in Baltimore.
Baltimore City Council, District 14 – Odette Ramos
Odette Ramos, the first Latina elected to serve on the Baltimore City Council, has dedicated many years of service to the residents of Maryland and Baltimore. From working for the late Maryland Senator Barbara Mikulski, to serving as the executive director of the Community Development Network of Maryland, community involvement is key to Odette’s campaign. That’s why CASA in Action is proud to endorse Odette Ramos.
CASA in Action will mobilize a powerful primary campaign to rally recently activated, newly registered, infrequent Black and Latino voters in Maryland and Baltimore city. Through canvassing and innovative digital touchpoints, this comprehensive program will engage and empower voters to seize the opportunity to cast their ballots for these remarkable candidates.
“CASA in Action is pleased to endorse such a robust list of candidates that share our values. The range of women and candidates of color running for elected office at all levels, is proof of our hard work in creating a more inclusive democracy that reflects all Marylanders,” said CASA in Action, Director of Electoral Programs, William Renderos.
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By mobilizing Black, Latine, Afro-descendent, Indigenous, and Immigrant voters, CASA in Action, and its 155,000 members, play a powerful role in electing progressive change leaders who can produce the justice our members seek nationwide. CASA in Action endorses candidates that advance its membership’s priorities and facilitates greater engagement of Latinos and voters of color in elections.
For more information, please visit CASAinAction.org. Follow us at @CASAinAction.