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504 Democratic Club
The 504 Democratic Club has endorsed Ben Kallos for City Council in Manhattan’s District 5 (Upper East Side and Roosevelt Island). The 504 Democratic Club is a New York City-based coalition of Democrats working towards inclusion of people with disabilities in the political and social fabric of society. Club members hail from all five boroughs.
“The members of the 504 Democratic Club were blown away by Ben's knowledge of the intricacies of disability issues. While many stalwarts expected to endorse his opponent due to having a disability himself, it was clear that Ben was far and away the best candidate to represent the disability community. Sometimes, understanding and experience trumps identity politics, and it was clear that the club almost unanimously changed their preconceived support upon hearing Ben's presentation,” said Dodge Landesman of the 504 Democratic Club.
Kallos has been an advocate for special needs while supporting his mother in her battle against Parkinson's disease, and social services and public health are priorities in his campaign platform.
“I’m proud to fight for the 504 Democratic Club’s ideals – of a city that works for everyone, and ensures we all have the social services we need,” said Kallos. “I’ve been proud to advocate on behalf of the disability community as Chief of Staff for Assembly member Jonathan Bing and to support those battling Parkinson’s disease by doing the Parkinson's walk with my mom each year. I look forward to continuing this work together with the 504 Democratic Club.”
“Ben inspired us by sharing the experience of caring for his own mother who suffers from Parkinson’s, which clearly has allowed for him to have a unique and deeply personal understanding of the needs of the disability community. It was clear to all in the room that he had the passion and has been, and will continue to be, a tireless fighter for people with disabilities, both in his personal life and career in advocacy. We expect him to be a great ally for the 504 Democratic Club in City Hall,” said Landesman.
The 504 Democratic Club joined 32BJ SEIU, the Sierra Club, National Organization for Women (N.O.W), and former Congresswoman Elizabeth Holtzman, who have all backed the Kallos campaign this August. Kallos has been the Executive Director of a leading good government group, attorney, Policy Director for Mark Green and the former Chief of Staff for Assembly Member Jonathan Bing. Learn more about his run for City Council District 5 at http://KallosForCouncil.com.