New York City Council candidate from District 23 garners support

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Koshy Thomas, candidate for the New York City Council from District 23 in Queens, was hosted by the Indian-origin community in the area to show its support.

Several Indian-Americans are running for the City Council this year.

The meeting endorsing Thomas took place in Santoor Restaurant in Floral Park and was attended by community leaders and activists.

In his speech, Koshy talked about his involvement with the community for the last 27 years and of knowing its concerns and aspirations.

“I consider this upcoming election as a great opportunity to serve the people in the District. There is so much to be done in terms of helping the community and the small business in these COVID times,” he is quoted saying in the press release, adding, “If you walk around this District, you may see so many small businesses are closing down, and they are truly hurting. They need help with tax breaks and other financial incentives to survive in this economic downturn.”

Dr. Aney Paul, legislator from Rockland county District 14, called for unity within the community. “When I ran for the election, people from all over the country extended help. I am expecting the same for Koshy’s campaign. This District has so many Asian Indians, and if we come together, victory is certain,” Paul said, offering her assistance in the effort.

Aniayan George, president of FOMAA (Federation Of Malayalee Associations of Americas), described Thomas as someone who identifies with the community regardless of their background and someone who has the energy, willingness, and capacity to elevate his contributions further as an NYC Councilman.

Father John Thomas, vicar of the Orthodox Church in Jackson Heights, said that as responsible citizens everyone must  participate in the elections and especially to vote.

Denzel George, president of the North Hempstead Malayalee Association, said, ‘We ought to believe in the candidacy of Koshy as the first step towards winning this great challenge. If we do, it is achievable.”

George Abraham, vice-chairman of the Indian Overseas Congress, encouraged the community to take advantage of this historic opportunity to place Thomas in the City Council.

Robin Singh, representing the Caribbean community, said, “Koshy’s candidacy is appealing to all  sectors of the community, and having known him over the years, I wholeheartedly endorse his candidacy and assure you of our support for his campaign.”

Leading community activist in Queens, V.M. Chacko, pointed out the potential the community has in this upcoming election. Others who spoke at the event included V. Abraham (Raju), George Parampil, Mary Philip, Thressiamma Sebastian, Dr. Anna George, George Kottarathil, Leelamma Appukuttan, and Lizzy Kochupura.

Ajit Abraham emceed the event.