NEWS
Op-Ed: This Year’s State Budget Must Prioritize Climate, Jobs, and Justice for New York
Jan. 30, 2023
In a time of rampant economic inequality and environmental injustice, it is easy to feel defeated. Here in Queens and across New York State, however, communities are organizing for a better future. New Yorkers from different backgrounds and with different lived experiences are proving that we can build community, organize, and create a future that reflects our shared values.
Gotham Gazette: We’re Assembly Members, Healthcare Experts, Women of Color, Mothers, and Fed Up: It’s Time to Pass the New York Health Act
May 18, 2022
The fact is, New York’s profit-driven health-care system continues to fail marginalized communities like those we represent in the State Legislature. As a matter of racial and gender justice, we must finally pass single-payer health care this state legislative session.
JACKSON HEIGHTS POST: González-Rojas Sponsors Bill That Would Fund Abortions for Out-of-State Women
May 10, 2022
Jackson Heights Assemblymember Jessica González-Rojas introduced legislation Monday that would set up a $50 million fund that would pay for abortion services for women from out of state where the procedure is outlawed. The funds would then be used to cover the cost of the procedure—as well as traveling expenses and childcare costs—for women from out of state as well as low-income New Yorkers.
JACKSON HEIGHTS POST: Queens Assemblymember Introduces Bill to Ban Non-Disclosure Agreements
May 2, 2022
Assemblymember Jessica González-Rojas has introduced a bill that would bar employers from including an NDA or non-disparagement agreement in a settlement pertaining to an alleged violation of human rights law or labor law.
SUNNYSIDE POST: Assembly Member González-Rojas Secures Funding for Several Programs in the State Budget
April 14, 2022
State lawmakers passed the final $220 billion state budget for fiscal year 2023 over the weekend. The budget, González-Rojas said, included funding for renters and small landlords, hospitals, schools, CUNY, childcare and other items she advocated for.
ASTORIA POST: Advocates Call for State Legislature to Pass González-Rojas’ Bill to Decriminalize Unlicensed Massage Parlors
March 1, 2022
Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas, community advocates and local massage workers came together at the Flushing Worker’s Center in Flushing Friday to bring attention to her legislation that would remove criminal penalties for massage workers who practice without a license.
QNS: Queens lawmaker pushes for increased funding for mental health professionals in public schools
February 24, 2022
“I want our children to be healthy as they learn in our schools and that they can get the help they need as they struggle with the isolation that the pandemic has caused, as well as other issues like racial inequity that are more clear than ever in our borough and in our state,” [Jessica] González-Rojas said.
QNS: Queens lawmaker addresses maternal mental health with new legislation
January 21, 2022
Assemblywoman Jessica González-Rojas is sponsoring legislation to address the inadequacies of maternal mental health screenings, especially for Black and Brown women.
QNS: Queens lawmaker appointed to Assembly Health Committee
January 10, 2022
Assemblywoman Jessica González-Rojas was appointed to the Assembly Standing Committee on Health, making her one of only two Latinas on the Committee, she announced on Friday, Jan. 7. González-Rojas is a longtime health advocate who served 13 years at the National Latina Institute for Reproductive Justice before being elected as an Assembly member.
ASTORIA Post: González-Rojas’ Bill Requiring the MTA to Prioritize Bike Access on MTA Bridges Becomes Law
December 29, 2021
Gov. Kathy Hochul signed a Queens legislator’s bill into law Tuesday that requires the MTA to prioritize bicycle access on MTA bridges and in commuter train stations. The legislation sponsored by Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas requires the MTA to develop a strategic plan to promote both bike and pedestrian access on all MTA bridges and at commuter rail stations across the state.
JAckson Heights Post: Assembly Member González-Rojas and Cycling Advocates Call on Governor to Sign MTA Bike Access Bill
November 19, 2021
Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas joined cycling advocates Thursday to call on the governor to sign her bill that would require the MTA to prioritize bicycle access.
WNYC: Why New York State Assemblymember Jessica González-Rojas is Fighting for Immigration Reform
October 8, 2021
On Thursday, activists and advocates protested in front of the White House, demanding that the Congressional reconciliation package include a pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants. New York State Assemblymember Jessica González-Rojas traveled to D.C. this week and was arrested while participating in that peaceful protest.
CITY & STATE: What Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas saw at Rikers
September 14, 2021
City & State caught up with Jessica González-Rojas Tuesday morning to hear more about her visit and what she thinks can be done to address the “inhumane” conditions she saw. This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
QNS: Assembly member González-Rojas expands reproductive health education with new legislation
July 21, 2021
González-Rojas said that this legislation perfectly aligns with her goals as an elected official looking to prioritize women’s health and reproductive rights. Prior to running for office, she ran a nonprofit called the National Latina Institute for Reproductive Health, working to make health care accessible.
Gotham Gazette: Latino Vote '21 Podcast: Queens, with Assemblymember Jessica González-Rojas
June 4, 2021
For the third episode of the Latino Vote '21 pop-up podcast, Assemblymember Jessica González-Rojas joined host Eli Valentin to discuss the Latino vote in Queens.
QNS: Queens senator calls on SLA to restore all liquor license removals
September 4, 2020
“We are in the district that was deeply impacted by COVID,” González-Rojas said. “There’s a restaurant down the street from my home, I live right off Northern Boulevard, and I witnessed it getting shut down for days due to fines. I witness another restaurant get a $1,500 fine without any proof — and when they ask for proof they got a grainy photo that shows nothing. This is unjust.”
CITY & STATE: The Power of Diversity: Latino Power 100
August 24, 2020
The former executive director of the National Latina Institute for Reproductive Health has built a brand for progressive activism, taking part in a number of Black Lives Matter protests, advocating for canceling rent during the pandemic, and pressing forward with a so-called Green New Northern Deal.
QUEENS COUNTY POLITICS: González-Rojas: “That’s the Way We Build Power – Being Counted”
August 20, 2020
“The thing we have to assert is that it is safe, the data’s safe,” said Democratic nominee for New York’s 34th Assembly District Jessica González-Rojas. “And then why we need you to be counted and then why we need your families and children to be counted as well.”
QNS: Queens community urges governor to tax billionaires and create a worker bailout fund
August 10, 2020
On Sunday, more than 300 people marched during Make the Road New York’s “Barrios Not Billionaires March” in support of the legislation, from Corona Plaza west along Roosevelt Avenue and down Junction Boulevard to LeFrak City complex where they called out billionaire businessman Richard LeFrak.
CITY LIMITS: Dos nuevas caras de latinas ganan primarias para la asamblea del estado de NY
August 3, 2020
Jessica González-Rojas, hija de madre puertorriqueña y padre paraguayo, fue la directora ejecutiva del Instituto Nacional de Latinas por la Justicia Reproductiva por más de 12 años, hasta cuando decidió lanzarse a la campaña electoral en 2019.
CITY LIMITS Opinion: NY Faces Three More Years of Harmful Budget Cuts Unless Legislative Leaders Act Now
August 1, 2020
Last month’s primary election results – our wins – make it clear that voters want a state legislature that stands up to the governor when it comes to budget and policy. So why are Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins and Speaker Carl Heastie blocking efforts to give their own members equal budget authority?
QUEENS LATINO: Ni un muerto más
July 29, 2020
Jessica González-Rojas, quien recientemente derrotó al asambleísta Michael DenDekker en las elecciones primarias del Partido Demócrata, gritó a todo pulmón, “Cuomo escucha, estamos en la lucha”.
CAPITOL PRESSROOM: ACTIVIST JESSICA GONZÁLEZ-ROJAS HOPES TO PRODUCE CHANGE FROM THE INSIDE
July 24, 2020
This year’s primaries saw a wave of progressive candidates unseat longtime Assembly incumbents. Today, we met one of those primary winners, Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas and discussed her goals for office.
NY1 Noticias: Candidata latina gana primaria para asamblea estatal en distrito en Queens
July 22, 2020
“Yo quiero luchar para los fondos para las escuelas aquí, yo quiero luchar para los derechos de los inmigrantes”. Esta es la tarjeta de presentación de Jessica González-Rojas, que aspira a representar al distrito 34 en la asamblea estatal.
queens chronicle: More insurgents claim primary wins
July 17, 2020
“This win means so much! Make the Road was the first group to step out and make a bold endorsement and we won on a progressive agenda that centers communities most impacted by injustices,” wrote González-Rojas.
QNS: Progressive challenger Jessica González-Rojas wins Jackson Heights Assembly primary
July 17, 2020
Progressive first-time challenger Jessica González-Rojas has won the highly contested race for Assembly District 34, beating six-term incumbent Michael DenDekker as well as three other candidates, on Friday, July 17.
RELEASE: Jessica González-Rojas Wins PRIMARY FOR Assembly Seat After Mail-in Ballots are Counted
July 17, 2020
González-Rojas, who showed a commanding lead after the initial in-person election results on June 23rd, maintained her advantage after mail-in ballots were finally tallied. She earned over 40% of the total votes cast in a five-person race to represent parts of Corona, East Elmhurst, Jackson Heights, and Woodside.
GoTHAM GAZETTE: After Strong Primary Showing, Will New Crop of Progressives Push Assembly Democrats Further Left?
July 15, 2020
“It’s not good enough to just vote the right way,” said Jessica González-Rojas, an activist who is well ahead of incumbent Michael DenDekker in Queen’s 34th Assembly District as absentee ballots are being counted. “Now, we need champions for these policies.”
NEW YORK TIMES: Insurgent Wave in New York Pushes Old Guard Democrats Aside
June 30, 2020
“The anti-establishment sentiment was also prominently in display in Queens, one of the most ethnically diverse parts of the country ….there, three candidates for State Assembly — Jessica González-Rojas, who is of Paraguayan and Puerto Rican descent…were all beating white incumbents as of Tuesday.”
queens chronicle: Leftward wave still showing its energy
June 25, 2020
In Assembly District 34, Working Families Party-backed Latina reproductive health advocate Jessica González-Rojas pulled out a 15-point lead over incumbent Assemblyman Michael Den Dekker (D-Jackson Heights). Den Dekker, a white East Elmhurst resident who first won his seat in 2008, has presided over the majority-Latino district without a primary since.
queens post: Assembly Member Michael DenDekker Defeated, Progressives Strike Another Blow
June 24, 2020
Jessica González-Rojas, who was the former executive director of the National Latina Institute for Reproductive Health, appears to have defeated 12-year incumbent Michael DenDekker to win the primary for the 34th Assembly District.
POLITICO: Progressives looking good as New York waits to count absentees
June 24, 2020
In the Assembly, several incumbents trailed their progressive challengers. It’s probably safe to assume that Assemblyman Michael DenDekker (down 17 to Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas) and Michael Miller (down 26 to Jenifer Rajkumar) have lost in Queens. Assemblywoman Aravella Simotas trailed Zohran Kwame Mamdani by 8 points.
QUEENS CHRONICLE: Despite uncertainties, Democratic primary turnout is strong in western Queens
June 24, 2020
Despite the unusual nature of the June 23 primary elections, which were rescheduled due to the coronavirus and then saw absentee ballots made a universal option for all New Yorkers, the consensus among poll workers in northwestern Queens was turnout was solid.
QUEENS CHRONICLE: Preliminary Queens primary results: Richards leads BP race
June 24, 2020
In the 34th Assembly District, Assemblyman Michael DenDekker (D-East Elmhurst) was trailing Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas, 1,691 to 928 in a five person race with 64.44 percent of the scanners tabulated.
EL DIARIO: Tu voto, tu voz en Nueva York
June 21, 2020
Para la Asamblea estatal distrito 34 de Queens apoyamos a Jessica González-Rojas, ex directora del Instituto Nacional de Latinas para la Salud Reproductiva y miembro fundadora de NICE (entidad de trabaja a favor de los jornaleros). Ella es una gran defensora de Medicare para Todos, la reforma policial y justicia penal así como justicia para los inmigrantes.
the intercept: BEYOND JAMAAL BOWMAN, PROGRESSIVES TARGETING NEW YORK INCUMBENTS UP AND DOWN THE BALLOT
June 20, 2020
González-Rojas is one of a slate of credible progressive challengers taking on state Assembly incumbents in the June 23 primary, running largely on the argument that New York’s pandemic-and-Trump-administration-produced budget crisis should be resolved by taxing the wealthy rather than austerity.
queens county politics: 34th AD candidates speak out on police reform, COVID-19 and more
June 19, 2020
With the Queens Democratic Party opening up for the first time in years with new candidates, six-term Assemblymember Michael DenDekker (D-Jackson Heights, Woodside, East Elmhurst) is being forced to defend his seat for the first time.
NY1: Debate with Errol Louis
June 19, 2020
Errol Louis moderates a debate between those four Democrats running in the 34th State Assembly District
NY1: Tiffany Caban Endorses Jessica González-Rojas
June 19, 2020
Juan Manuel Benitez looks at the 34th Assembly District and the challengers and the incumbent.
new york times: Will the Pandemic Slow New York’s Progressive Momentum?
June 18, 2020
Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas, an Assembly candidate in Queens, has used phone banks to assess residents’ needs during the outbreak, and she follows up with personal visits.
Univision: Hispana busca representar a uno de los barrios más afectados por el coronavirus en NY
June 16, 2020
Jessica González-Rojas, que ha trabajado como activista por muchos años, ha enfocado su campaña en ayudar a su comunidad de Queens, la cual ha sido una de las más afectadas por la pandemia del coronavirus. Busca representar uno de los distritos con mayor población hispana del estado de Nueva York.
GOTHAM GAZETTE: Challenges for Challengers: Coronavirus Crisis May Make It An Especially Tough Year for Insurgents to Overcome Incumbents
June 16, 2020
The coronavirus pandemic has exacerbated existing inequalities, a trend that may extend to party primary elections happening this month, where already-disadvantaged challengers to incumbents could face even more daunting odds, experts say.
QNS: Make the Road Action, DenDekker challenger call on assemblyman to support Recovery for All movement
June 15, 2020
Make the Road Action, District 34 Assembly candidate Jessica González-Rojas and more than 50 Queens residents marched toward Assemblyman Michael DenDekker’s office to hold him accountable for “failing to ensure a Recovery for All, including a state-level Excluded Workers’ Fund and canceling rent” on Thursday, June 11.
VIDEO: Jessica’s Plan for Education Equity
STREETSBLOG: StreetsPAC Endorses Six Challengers in June 23 Primary
June 12, 2020
González-Rojas’s “bold plan” to redesign dangerous Northern Boulevard makes her the most likely candidate in a multi-candidate race to prevail against the “mediocre” incumbent.
CITY & STATE: candidates of color who could topple longtime white incumbents
June 11, 2020
One candidate who may have the best chance of mirroring AOC’s success is González-Rojas, an activist who has worked on immigrants rights, whose father immigrated from Paraguay and whose mother is Puerto Rican. “We are extremely diverse,” González-Rojas said of her district. “And we've never been represented by someone that reflects either the diversity or the values of the neighborhood.
VIDEO: Jessica González-Rojas Celebrates Pride
QUEENS COUNTY POLITICS: González-Rojas pressures incumbent DenDekker on police reform
June 9, 2020
In the midst of citywide protests against the NYPD following the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis, 34th Assembly District Candidate Jessica González-Rojas challenged incumbent Assemblymember Michael DenDekker (D-Corona, East Elmhurst, Jackson Heights, and Woodside) on his police reform record.
EL DIARIO OP-ED: Nuestra comunidad necesita rendición de cuentas de la policía
June 8, 2020
En las últimas dos semanas, a través de toda nuestra ciudad y todo nuestro país, se ha levantado un enorme movimiento social exigiendo justicia y cambios reales a un sistema de policía racista que a diario ataca a nuestras comunidades. Las comunidades negras y latinas, con nuestros aliados, hemos estado en las calles exigiendo una verdadera rendición de cuentas de la policía.
GOTHAM GAZETTE: Competitive Queens Primary in District Ravaged by Coronavirus Strikes Familiar Themes
June 8, 2020
González-Rojas, backed by the Working Families Party, is the progressive choice to beat DenDekker, with a platform addressing housing, LGBTQ rights, police accountability, and immigrant and environmental justice. Some of her proposals include free tuition for students at the City University of New York, universal health care, defending state bail reforms that were recently partially rolled back, stronger protections for renters, and limiting Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s power in New York.
VIDEO: The Progressive Choice
QUEENS POST: Hundreds March to Jackson Heights Assembly Member’s Office to Demand Action on Police Accountability
June 3, 2020
Jessica González-Rojas, who is vying for DenDekker’s seat, was also critical of the incumbent. She claimed that he only made the donations and backed reforms after political pressure stemming from George Floyd’s killing and subsequent protests.
“We need a representative who will stand up for the district, which is 88% people of color, not law enforcement PACs that attempt to squash important criminal justice reforms,” González-Rojas said in a press release separate from the march.
Queens eagle: Progressive legislative candidates push inmate release measures during COVID crisis
June 1, 2020
A group of progressive legislative candidates are urging their would-be colleagues in Albany to prioritize a package of bills providing a pathway to freedom for inmates in COVID-plagued state prisons.
RELEASE: Progressive Challenger Jessica González-Rojas Blasts Incumbent Mike DenDekker for Taking Thousands in Law Enforcement Donations & Failing to Support Police Accountability Legislation
May 31, 2020
“Assemblyman Michael DenDekker has failed our community. DenDekker has taken over $22,000 from law enforcement in campaign contributions in this election cycle alone and he refuses to back any legislation that would hold them accountable for misconduct. DenDekker will not stand up to the law enforcement forces that are funding his campaign.”
NBC NEWS: Latino group backs Democrats who could make history, boost Hispanic voter turnout
May 29, 2020
Latino Victory Fund reasons that the presence of a Latino candidate may help build the margin needed for Biden, while getting more Latinos in the political office pipeline.
City Limits: On June 23, Elect Champions for a Recovery for All
May 26, 2020
In Western Queens, Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas is running for state assembly in District 34, one of the most impacted areas in the entire country. Jessica has fought throughout her career for access to health for all, most recently as the Executive Director of the National Latina Institute for Reproductive Health. In these months she has worked tirelessly to coordinate direct assistance to those in need–converting her campaign into a mutual aid effort–and advocate for her community.
QNS: Cabán endorses González-Rojas for western Queens Assembly seat
May 21, 2020
Former candidate for Queens District Attorney Tiffany Cabán announced her support for Jessica González-Rojas, a reproductive health advocate and insurgent candidate in the Democratic primary for State Assembly District 34.
EL DIARIO: Jessica González-Rojas arrecia campaña para llegar a la Asamblea Estatal por el Distrito 34
May 21, 2020
La activista comunitaria, hija de padre paraguayo y madre boricua, espera desbancar de su curul a Michael DenDekker, quien lleva 12 años en el cargo.
QUEENS DAILY EAGLE: Cabán backs González-Rojas in Jackson Heights Assembly race
May 21, 2020
Former Queens District Attorney candidate Tiffany Cabán has endorsed Jessica González-Rojas in the crowded Democratic primary for Queens’ Assembly District 34.
jackson heights post: Dromm Endorses Insurgent for State Assembly
May 18, 2020
Dromm formally endorsed Jessica González-Rojas this morning in Jackson Heights. She hopes to unseat six-term incumbent Michael DenDekker in a district that covers Jackson Heights, East Elmhurst and parts of Woodside and Corona.
QNS: Jackson Heights councilman endorses insurgent Assembly candidate for District 34 seat
May 18, 2020
Jackson Heights Councilman Daniel Dromm has endorsed Jessica González-Rojas, an insurgent candidate for the Assembly seat in District 34, ahead of the June 23 primary election.
With two emails, Queens Rep. Ocasio-Cortez raises over $140K to purchase masks for essential workers
May 14, 2020
Like Ocasio-Cortez, Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas, a candidate for State Assembly in New York State Assembly District 34, has also mobilized her campaign toward direct relief for residents affected by the pandemic.
EL CORREO: Candidata hispana dice que se debe hacer más por los inmigrantes indocumentados durante la pandemia de COVID-19
April 28, 2020
Los días de Jessica González-Rojas ahora consisten en llamadas de ayuda, entrega de alimentos y necesidades básicas a los vecinos, y la realización de seminarios web informativos para la comunidad de Jackson Heights, uno de los barrios de Queens más afectados por la pandemia de COVID-19.
qns: Jackson Heights Assembly candidate says more must be done for immigrant, undocumented communities during COVID-19 pandemic
April 24, 2020
Jessica González-Rojas’ days now consist of mutual aid calls, delivering groceries and basic needs to neighbors, and hosting informative webinars for the Jackson Heights community, one of the Queens neighborhoods hardest hit by the COVID-19 pandemic.
city and state: If they can’t knock on doors, how do candidates get face time?
April 19, 2020
If anyone could recreate Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s shocking 2018 upset, it would be Jessica González-Rojas. Like Ocasio-Cortez before her, González-Rojas is a Latina challenging an older, moderate white man who took office years ago. Assemblyman Michael DenDekker, this race’s Joe Crowley, is a six-term Democrat representing Queens neighborhoods like Jackson Heights that lie entirely within what is now AOC’s district.
vogue: Meet Jessica González-Rojas, the Activist Fighting to Save Queens’s Most Imperiled District
April 15, 2020
As the former Executive Director of the National Latina Institute for Reproductive Health, González-Rojas is no stranger to fighting for those in need. “I’ve always been the thorn in the side of many elected officials, pushing for issues that are important to immigrant communities and women,” González-Rojas, the daughter of a father from Paraguay and a Puerto Rican mother, told Vogue over the phone.
The QNS Podcast: Listeners share their COVID-19 experiences
April 13, 2020
On this special episode of the QNS Podcast, we hear from you, the listener. We have stories from the leader of a nonprofit, a state senator, a candidate for State Assembly, a playwright and a freelance journalist.
streetsblog Op-Ed: Keep MTA Buses Fare-Free After the Pandemic
March 2, 2020
An emergency measure for social distancing presents an opportunity for improving air quality and social equity, an activist argues.
QUEENS DAILY EAGLE: Queens Assembly candidates urge lawmakers to demand speedy jail release
March 23, 2020
Three progressive Assembly candidates from Western Queens have drafted an open letter to their would-be colleagues, urging the borough’s elected officials to use their influence to accelerate the release of detainees and inmates from New York jails as the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases climbs.
RELEASE: GONZÁLEZ-ROJAS UNVEILS BOLD, PROGRESSIVE EDUCATION PLAN
March 9, 2020
Jessica González-Rojas, Democrat for Assembly (NY34), stood with education advocates and experts to unveil a bold platform for education reforms. González-Rojas, a parent of a public school student and former adjunct professor at CUNY and NYU, called for expanding dual language programs, a universal childcare program, comprehensive sex education, and significant increase in special education funding.
Qns: Working Families Party endorses progressive challenger for DenDekker’s Assembly seat
March 6, 2020
The New York Working Families Party endorsed Jackson Heights resident Jessica González-Rojas in her primary challenge against Assemblyman Michael DenDekker Thursday. In pledging their support, NY-WFP State Director Sochie Nnaemeka praised González-Rojas’ record fighting for healthcare as a human right and for racial justice.
Queens daily eagle: Working Families Party backs González-Rojas in Assembly District 34
March 5, 2020
New York WFP State Director Sochie Nnaemeka said González-Rojas “has the political courage to demand the revenue our communities in Queens need to thrive. Jessica is centering working families, immigrants and communities of color — and we’re proud to fight for her on the campaign trail this year.”
The forum: Dromm, Gonzalez-Rojas Lead Rally Defending New Bail-Reform Law
February 20, 2020
On Tuesday, City Council Finance Committee Chairman Daniel Dromm (D-Jackson Heights) joined Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas, a Democratic candidate running to represent Assembly District 34, in leading a rally at Diversity Plaza at 74th Street and Roosevelt Avenue in Jackson Heights in defense of bail reform in the five boroughs.
NY1: Bail Reform is Criminal Justice
February 19, 2020
Bail reform is a vitally necessary reform that impacts so many communities of color and low-income people. Pre-trial detention needlessly puts too many people at risk. I am running for State Assembly to be a leader on criminal justice reforms that impact our community.
el diario: Exigen a Albany no retroceder en avances de reforma a la justicia
February 19, 2020
“La reforma de la fianza es una reforma vitalmente necesaria que afecta a muchas comunidades de color y personas de bajos ingresos, porque las poblaciones marginadas no pueden pagar la fianza son criminalizadas desproporcionadamente debido a la pobreza”, dijo la política.
queens latino: Jessica González-Rojas quiere el asiento de Michael DenDekker
February 19, 2020
“He sido activista toda mi vida y represento los valores de este vecindario”, dijo González-Rojas en conferencia de prensa para defender la reforma de la libertad bajo fianza por considerarla una injusticia social. “Los ricos pueden pagar la fianza y comprar su libertad, mientras que los pobres son enjaulados por delitos menores”.
RELEASE: González-Rojas and Dromm Stand with Criminal Justice Advocates to Defend New York’s Bail Reform
February 18, 2020
Jessica González-Rojas, Democrat for Assembly (NY34), was joined by City Council Member Daniel Dromm (D-Jackson Heights) and criminal justice advocates to blast attempts to roll back advancements on bail reform in New York. Although major progress was made last year, New York’s criminal justice system is under attack from reactionary politicians and conservative prosecutors who want to return to an unjust past.
streetsblog: Meet the Democratic Insurgents Who Want Transit to be Free
February 17, 2020
“I’m a member of the Democratic Socialists of America, and there’s lots of conversations happening with the insurgent candidates, an energy to thinking big about public goods and human rights and something that gets us away from a system that actually serves everybody,” Gonzalez-Rojas, who’s running against Assembly Member Michael DenDekker in Jackson Heights said. “That ensures we’re not excluding people from these benefits because they don’t have the resources.”
Release: NARAL Pro-Choice America Endorses Jessica González-Rojas for NY State Assembly
February 4, 2020
“Jessica González-Rojas is a lifelong, tireless advocate for reproductive freedom,” says Ilyse Hogue, President of NARAL Pro-Choice America. “NARAL is proud to endorse her so she can bring her leadership and expertise to the New York State Legislature and work to ensure that women in the state are free to make their own personal decisions about pregnancy without interference from politicians.”
STREETSBLOG: Jackson Heights Assembly Candidate Unveils Plan to Transform Deadly Northern Boulevard
January 30, 2020
An insurgent — and car-free! — Assembly candidate from Queens wants to transform deadly Northern Boulevard into a 14th Street-style busway to help break the district’s car culture that the incumbent lawmaker seems to favor.
“We cannot accept this any longer, it is time for a major change to improve Northern Boulevard,” said González-Rojas.
QUEENS CHRONICLE: We cannot accept this any longer’; Assembly candidate calls for green changes to Northern
January 30, 2020
National Latina Institute executive director Jessica González-Rojas, running against Assemblyman Michael Den Dekker (D-East Elmhurst) in a Democratic primary, announced her plan for a “Green New Northern Boulevard,” on Monday morning. In recent years, Northern has taken the moniker “The Boulevard of Death” from Queens Boulevard.
QNS: Jackson Heights Assembly candidate presents her plan for a safer Northern Boulevard
January 29, 2020
A progressive, insurgent Assembly candidate from Jackson Heights has presented a radical plan to end the carnage of Northern Boulevard, the most dangerous roadway in Queens. Jessica González-Rojas presented her bold plan surrounded by community leaders, small business owners and transportation advocates.
QNS: Western Queens Assembly challengers reinforce campaigns with strong fundraising
January 23, 2020
Gonzelez-Rojas, a progressive Latina candidate, also reached a greater number of people than her competition. She had 536 individual contributions from 495 unique donors, and incumbent DenDekker had 100 individual contributions from 92 unique donors.
Luz Collective: Jessica González-Rojas Wants Systemic Change And Is Aiming For The New York State Assembly
January 22, 2020
While Jessica González-Rojas’ dream was to work in the United Nations and become a diplomat, an early opportunity to work with Congresswoman Nydia Velázquez, the first Puerto Rican woman to serve in the U.S. Congress, rerouted her path. There, González-Rojas realized that she didn’t need to leave the U.S. to help people in need.
[VIDEO] Jessica González-Rojas Speaks Out Against Proposed Bus Redesign in Queens
QNS: Jackson Heights residents wary of bus service changes proposed by MTA
January 8, 2020
“I am deeply troubled by the MTA’s proposal to eliminate several bus routes that are critically important to most bus commuters in Jackson Heights, East Elmhurst, Corona and Woodside,” González-Rojas said. “As someone who does not own a car and relies on MTA’s buses and subways every day, I understand how problematic this will be to everyone in our community.”
2020: bold and brave
December 31, 2019
As we wind down the final hours of 2019, it is important to reflect on both the progress we have made this year but also the challenges that remain for our community. I believe that the past year proved that so much is possible when we are bold and brave.
qns: Influential immigrant rights group endorses insurgent progressive challenger against DenDekker
December 18, 2019
Make the Road Action, a leading progressive community organization announced it would back Jessica González-Rojas. A nationally-recognized expert on health care reform, gender and racial justice who was formerly the Executive Director of the National Latina Institute for Reproductive Health.
release: NYCC Endorses Jessica González-Rojas for State Assembly
December 18, 2019
New York Communities for Change is backing Jessica González-Rojas, a life-long activist and change-maker, to be a leader in the State Legislature fighting to make CUNY free again, charting a path for a Green New Deal, and mobilizing to make housing a human right in New York.
Queens daily eagle: Influential immigrants’ rights group backs challenger in Assembly District 34
December 17, 2019
Queens-based immigrants’ rights organization Make the Road Action has endorsed a challenger to six-term incumbent Michael DenDekker in the race for Assembly District 34. The influential organization announced that it will back Jessica González-Rojas, a health care reform expert and former executive director of the National Latina Institute for Reproductive Health, in the June 2020 Democratic primary.
RELEASE: Make the Road Action Endorses Jessica González-Rojas for State Assembly
December 17, 2019
Make the Road Action (MRA), a leading progressive community organization in Queens representing immigrants and working-class people of color, announced today its endorsement of Jessica González-Rojas for Assembly District 34, encompassing the neighborhoods of Corona, East Elmhurst, Jackson Heights, and Woodside.
WNBC4: Hundreds of Airline Catering Workers Protest at JFK Airport
November 26, 2019
There were dozens arrested after the workers protested and blocked traffic at the American Airlines section of terminal 8 at the busy airport. They are demanding better pay and benefits.
QNS: Jackson Heights Assembly challenger centers her campaign launch on healthcare, immigrant rights
November 20, 2019
Reproductive health advocate Jessica González-Rojas, an insurgent candidate the Assembly seat in District 34, officially launched her campaign to a crammed bar of supporters on Monday, Nov. 18.
Release: Community Activist Jessica González-Rojas Launches Campaign for Assembly
November 19, 2019
Over one hundred people turned out in the rain in support of Jessica González-Rojas as she launched her campaign for the New York State Assembly, District 34. Speaking in front of a standing room-only crowd packed into Alejandro’s Tapas Bar in Woodside, González-Rojas presented her vision for the future of the Queens community.
REMEZCLA: Trans Activist Kicked Out of Event for Protesting Puerto Rico Governor Wanda Vázquez
November 12, 2019
“As a Puerto Rican woman of the diaspora who was deeply inspired by the leadership and activism of local organizers during the protests this summer, I was appalled that Vázquez was being honored at this luncheon,” González-Rojas, the former executive director of the National Latina Institute for Reproductive Health who is now running to represent New York’s 34th assembly district, tells Remezcla.
VIDEO: FIGHTING TOGETHER
November 10, 2019
I am running for State Assembly because the stakes are too high. Join us for our campaign launch party on Monday, Nov 18th at 6:30pm at Alejandro's Tapas Bar at 38-01 69th Street in Woodside.
RELEASE: Primary Election Challengers for New York State Legislative Seats to Incumbents: Do Your Job on #FairElections
November 7, 2019
A unique collaborative event organized by State Senate and Assembly primary challengers occurred this morning on the steps of City Hall to call on incumbents, including legislative leadership, to immediately speak out more forcefully in support of a strong small donor matching program for New York State.
MEDIUM: Estoy postulándome para la Asamblea Estatal
4 de Noviembre, 2019
Corona, East Elmhurst, Jackson Heights y Woodside se encuentran entre los vecindarios más diversos del mundo. Se necesita un líder que comprenda y conecte las experiencias y luchas de nuestra comunidad para representarla efectivamente. Necesitamos un líder que luche por todos nosotros.
medium: Why I’m Running for State Assembly
November 4, 2019
Corona, East Elmhurst, Jackson Heights, and Woodside are among the most diverse neighborhoods in the world. It takes a leader who understands and connects to the experiences and struggles of our community to be an effective representative. We need a leader who will fight for all of us.
QUEENS DAILY EAGLE: Jackson Heights leader challenges six-term incumbent Assemblyman DenDekker
September 29, 2019
National Latina Institute Executive Director Jessica González-Rojas will challenge six-term Assemblymember Michael DenDekker in the Democratic primary for Assembly District 34.
MV Times: ‘Amazing, badass women’
August 14, 2019
Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas Executive Director of the National Latina Institute for Reproductive Health, talks about challenges her staff has faced working in the field at the border in Texas.
Qns: DA recount update: Cabán maintains convincing lead over Katz in East Elmhurst assembly district
July 24, 2019
González-Rojas’ challenge comes amid a sweep at the state and federal level of mainstream Democrats by progressives in the style of Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.