The Communications Workers of America officially endorses Councilman Ras Baraka to be Newark’s next mayor.

“Ras Baraka understands this isn’t just about an election, it’s about building a movement to revitalize urban areas and make our communities stronger,” said Hetty Rosenstein, CWA NJ State Director. “The thousands of CWA members who live and work in Newark are ready to roll up our sleeves to get things done.  And we look forward to working with Ras Baraka for a better, more progressive Newark.”

“In running for mayor, I am building an inclusive, broad-based movement of people and institutions empowered to transform our city,” said Councilman Ras Baraka. “The CWA is a vital part of that movement. My theme is “Believe in Newark”. This reflects my belief that the people of Newark have the power to raise up our city if we believe in ourselves and in what we can accomplish by working collectively.”

A native of Newark, Ras Baraka is a former Deputy Mayor, the Principal of Central High School and Councilman from Newark’s South Ward. The son of poets Amiri and Amina Baraka, Ras is an accomplished poet and author. His family has lived in Newark for over 70 years.  Ras was educated in the Newark public schools system, received his B.A. from Howard University and his Masters Degree from St. Peters University.

Whether as a councilman, an educator or a community organizer, Baraka shares the CWA’s values of equality and sticking up for working families.

You can learn more about Council Ras Baraka and his campaign for Mayor by following him on Facebook and Twitter!

The Newark mayoral and council election will be held May 2014.