Candidate Answers to JOLDC: Shana Harmongoff for NY Assembly District 70

Candidate Name: Shana Harmongoff

Office Seeking Election for: NY Assembly District 70

Campaign Website: https://www.harmongoff4ny.org

With the possibility of Donald J. Trump winning (stealing) the next Presidential election and ending democracy and civil rights in the United States, it is more important than ever that we elect progressive, dynamic leaders to the New York State Senate and New York State Assembly.

1. Based upon your life experiences and accomplishments why should we believe, you would be a dynamic, progressive leader who would stand up for Civil Rights and Democracy?

Throughout my life, I’ve consistently championed equality, fairness, and inclusivity. From supporting anti-discrimination laws and initiatives to advocating for LGBTQ inclusive policies, I’ve demonstrated my unwavering dedication to standing up for civil rights and democracy. As a dynamic and progressive leader,

I am committed to continuing this fight and ensuring that every individual, regardless of their identity, has the opportunity to thrive and participate fully in our society.

2. What is your involvement in the LGBTQ Civil Rights movement? What candidates have you or are you supporting who are openly LGBTQ? What legislation have you/do you support to further LGBTQ rights? Do you /will you have an LGBTQ liaison in your office? What LGBTQ organizations have you been involved with, either on a volunteer or professional basis?

As a strong advocate for LGBTQ rights, I am proud to support NY Senate Bill

351. This crucial legislation requires school districts and charter schools to include instruction on the political, economic, and social contributions, and lifeways of LGBTQIA people, in an appropriate place in the curriculum of middle school students. By endorsing this bill, I am reaffirming my commitment to equality and justice for all New Yorkers, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

When elected, I will continue to prioritize the advancement of LGBTQ rights and work tirelessly to endure that every member of our community feels safe, respected, and included. Additionally, I am committed to having an LGBTQ liaison working in my office, dedicated to addressing the needs and concerns of the LGBTQ community directly.

I have been actively involved with several LGBTQ organizations, both in a volunteer and professional capacity. Some of these include NYC Pride, and Harlem Pride, where I have volunteered and help with organizing. My engagement with these organizations has deepened my understanding of LGBTQ issues and strengthened my commitment to equality and inclusion.

3. What demonstrations, rallies, and protests have you participated in support of LGBTQ issues, African-American, Hispanic, Asian-American Civil Rights, pro- choice legislation, criminal justice issues, and Resist Trump?

I have actively participated in numerous demonstrations, rallies, and protests to support a variety of social justice causes. In support of LGBTQ issues, I have

marched in the NYC Pride Parade and the Harlem Pride Parade and attended rallies advocating for LGBTQ rights and protections.

Additionally, I have joined demonstrations in solidarity with the Black Lives Matter Movement and the Upper Manhattan Asian American Alliance organizations to demand civil rights and combat systemic racism and discrimination.

For pro-choice legislation, I have participated in rallies w/ Planned Parenthood in support of protecting women’s reproductive rights. As well as making sure we have access to comprehensive healthcare for all individuals.

Regarding criminal justice issues, I have taken part in protests calling for police reform, an end to mass incarceration, and greater accountability within the criminal justice system.

Lastly, I have joined the Resist Trump movement, participating in protests against harmful policies and rhetoric that undermine democracy, human rights, and social progress.

4. Do you support reparations to compensate African Americans for the history of slavery, Jim Crow, and systemic racism in this country?

Yes, reparations are a crucial step towards acknowledging and addressing the historical and ongoing injustices faced by African Americans due to slavery, Jim Crow laws, and systemic racism. Reparations can take various forms, including financial compensation, investments in communities, educational opportunities, and initiatives to address systemic inequalities. It is essential to have comprehensive discussions to determine the most effective and meaningful ways to provide reparations and promote reconciliation and healing.

5. What are your concrete proposals to address current systemic racism in terms of employment, housing, voting rights, and the criminal justice system in the U.S.?

Employment: Enforce anti-discrimination laws, implement diversity quotas, and invest in job training for marginalized communities.

Housing: Increase funding for affordable housing, enforce fair housing laws, and combat gentrification.

Voting Rights: Expand voting access, fight voter suppression tactics, and restore voting rights for individuals with felony convictions.

Criminal Justice: Reform policing practices, invest in alternatives to incarceration, and address sentencing disparities.

6. Will you advocate for elder parole where incarcerated individuals aged 55 and older who have serviced in excess of 15 years obtain parole hearings? Are you a sponsor of the Elder Parole Bill, Senate 2423?

Yes, I fully support elder parole and believe in its importance for ensuring justice and compassion within our criminal justice system. It’s imperative that we recognize the potential for rehabilitation and redemption, particularly among older individuals, and provide them with a fair opportunity for release and reintegration into society.

7. Do you sponsor the Earned Time Act, Senate S774, which strengthens and expands “good time” and “earned time” to support rehabilitation efforts?

Yes. This legislation is crucial for strengthening and expanding “good time” and “earned time” policies, which are essential components of rehabilitation efforts within our criminal justice system. By incentivizing positive behavior and participation in rehabilitation programs, we can promote successful reentry into society and reduce recidivism rates. This bill aligns with my commitment to fostering a more equitable and effective criminal justice system that prioritizes rehabilitation and second chances.

8. Do you sponsor Eliminate Mandatory Minimum Bill Act, S6471 which reduces excessive sentences and enables judges to look at individual factors and mitigating circumstances?

Yes. By providing judges with greater discretion, we can ensure that sentences are fair, proportionate, and tailored to the specific circumstances of each case. This bill is a significant step towards creating a more just and equitable criminal justice system that prioritizes rehabilitation and fairness.

9. Do you sponsor the Second Look Act, S7872, which allows for reconsideration of prison sentences based on changes in law and circumstances?

Yes, I believe in fair and just treatment within the legal system. I am committed to supporting legislation that promotes fairness, equality and rehabilitation within our criminal justice system.

10. Have you participated, and will you participate in demonstrations and protests in relation to the issues of clemency and parole?

Yes, I have participated and will remain committed to continuing my participation in peaceful advocacy efforts to bring about positive change in these important areas.

11. Will you affirmatively seek to hire formerly incarcerated individuals?

Absolutely. I believe in the importance of providing opportunities for individuals who have served their time and are seeking to rebuild their lives. By offering employment opportunities, we can help break the cycle of incarceration and support successful reintegration into society.

12. Have you and will you visit incarcerated constituents to learn of their conditions?

Yes, I believe it’s crucial to understand the lived experiences of incarcerated individuals firsthand. I have visited incarcerated constituents in the past to learn about their conditions, and I will continue to do so.

13. What are your proposals to have prisons focus more on rehabilitation and less on punishment?

My proposals aim to shift the focus of our prisons towards rehabilitation rather than punishment. This includes increasing funding for educational and vocational programs within prisons to provide inmates with the skills and resources they need to successfully reintegrate into society upon release. Additionally, I support initiatives that prioritize mental health and substance abuse treatment, as addressing these underlying issues is essential for the breaking the cycle of incarceration.

14. Do you support ending the cruel punishment of solitary confinement, such as was recently mandated by the New York City Council?

Yes, I fully support ending the cruel punishment of solitary confinement. The recent mandate by the NYC Council is a step in the right direction towards promoting humane treatment within our criminal justice system. Solitary confinement can have severe psychological effects and often exacerbates rather than rehabilitates individuals. I believe in implementing alternative disciplinary measures that focus on rehabilitation and address the root causes of behavior, while ensuring the safety and well-being of both inmates and staff.

15. What are your proposals to facilitate individuals who have recently entered the

U.S. to be able to live decently with employment and housing?

I propose implementing comprehensive support systems for individuals who have recently entered the U.S. to help them live decently with employment and housing. This includes expanding access to language and job training programs to facilitate employment opportunities. Additionally, I would advocate for increased funding for affordable housing initiatives and supportive services to assist newcomers in securing stable housing.

16. What proposals do you advocate to combat the cruel and inhumane immigration policies that the Trump Administration commenced and which, to some degree, are still in effect?

I would advocate for reversing family separation policies, ending detention for asylum seekers, strengthening legal protections, addressing root causes of migration, and creating pathways to citizenship for undocumented immigrants. These steps are crucial to combatting the cruel and inhumane immigration policies initiated by the Trump Administration.

17. Do you believe in the decriminalization of sex work?

Yes, sex work is work.

18. Do you oppose legislation that promotes the Nordic model?

Yes.

19. What concrete proposals do you support to lift up women after four years of Trump being President?

I support concrete proposals such as pay equity, affordable childcare, protection against discrimination, support for women-owned businesses, access to reproductive healthcare, and promoting diversity in leadership to uplift women after four years of Trump presidency.

20. Do you support a single-payer universal health care system? Please elaborate.

Yes, I support a single-payer universal healthcare system. This system ensures that all individuals have access to healthcare regardless of their financial situation. It simplifies the administration of healthcare, reduces costs, and ensures that everyone receives the care they need when they need it. By eliminating the complexities of private insurance, we can focus on providing quality healthcare to all Americans as a fundamental right.

21. What have you done to facilitate reproductive rights, including access to contraceptives and abortion services?

I have been a vocal advocate for reproductive rights, including access to contraceptives and abortion services with Planned Parenthood organization. I have supported legislation to protect and expand access to reproductive healthcare services, including funding for family planning clinics and comprehensive sex, education programs. Additionally, I have worked to combat efforts to restrict access to abortion and have fought for policies that ensure reproductive rights are upheld and protected for all individuals.

22. Will you refuse contributions from individuals or Political Action Committees representing the Real Estate industry, from police or correction communities?

I am committed to maintaining the integrity of my campaign and ensuring that my priorities remain aligned with the interest of the constituents I aim to represent. As

such, I have made the decision to refuse contributions from individuals or Political Action Committees representing the Real Estate industry, as well as from police or correction communities. This allows me to prioritize the needs and concerns of the community without the influence of special interests.

23. Will you refuse and refund any contributions from executives or corporations complicit in the Trump anti-American agenda?

Yes, I am committed to upholding the values and interests of the constituents I aim to represent. As such, I will refuse and refund any contributions from executives or corporations complicit in the Trump anti-American agenda. It’s important to me that my campaign remains free from influence that contradicts the principles of democracy, equality, and justice.

24. How do you propose that we address the current surge of Islamophobia and anti- Semitism?

We can address the surge of discrimination and prejudice by implementing education and awareness programs, strengthening hate crime laws, promoting interfaith dialogue, supporting community-led initiatives, and empowering marginalized communities through representation and advocacy.

25. Did you or would you have voted for the censure of U.S. Representative Rashida Tlaib?

No.

26. Do you support an immediate ceasefire in the Middle East?

Yes.

27. Should we condition further aid to Israel? What conditions should we stress that Israel abides by?

I believe that as a part of efforts to promote a lasting ceasefire and advance peace in the region, it’s important to carefully consider the conditions under which aid is provided to Israel. Any further assistance should be contingent upon Israel’s

commitment to upholding international law, respecting human rights, and actively working towards a viable two-state solution that ensures security and for both Israelis and Palestinians.

28. Will you refuse funds from Trump-supporting AIPAC?

Yes.

29. What are your concrete proposals to prevent Trump and his cult from taking over this country and ending democracy?

To prevent the erosion of democracy and the influence of Trump’s agenda, I propose strengthening democratic institutions, promoting civic education, holding accountable those who undermine democratic norms, fostering inclusivity, and building coalitions across political lines.

30. How can we combat the movement in this country to ban books, prevent colleges from discussing issues and demonizing intelligence as “woke”?

We combat book bans, restrictions on academic freedom, and demonization of intelligence by defending freedom of expression, supporting educators, challenging censorship, promoting inclusive discourse, and educating about the importance of intellectual freedom.

31. As Christopher Columbus caused the death/slavery of thousands, should we replace the Christopher Columbus statue in Columbus Circle, and if so, what should replace it? Do you authorize the use of your name for such a purpose?

As Christopher Columbus’s actions caused harm to many, I support replacing the statute in Columbus Circle with a symbol that better reflects our values and honors diverse voices. As for what should replace it, I believe the decision should involve the input from the community to ensure it represents inclusivity and celebrates the contributions of all peoples. While I authorize the consideration of my name for such a purpose, I defer to the collective decision-making process of the community on this matter.

32. As Edward I Koch caused the deaths of hundreds of thousands of people with AIDS and was blatantly racist, should we rename the former Queensboro Bridge? Do you authorize the use of your name for such a purpose?

As Edward I Kosh actions have caused harm and controversary, I support renaming the former Queensboro Bridge to reflect our values and honor individuals who better represent inclusivity and equality. Regarding the use of my name for such a purpose, I believe the decision should be made collectivity, considering input from the community and stakeholders. While I authorize the consideration of my name, I defer to the broader consensus of the community on this matter.

33. What will you do to support nightlife in New York State? Do you commit to speaking with liquor license applicants and restaurant/nightlife industry representatives before taking a position on policies affecting their businesses?

I am committed to supporting nightlife in NY State by advocating for policies that foster a vibrant and safe entertainment environment. This includes ensuring fair and reasonable regulations for liquor licenses and addressing concerns of the restaurant and nightlife industry. I commit to engaging in dialogue with liquor license applicants and representatives from restaurant/nightlife industry before taking positions on policies that affect their businesses. By listening to their perspectives and concerns, we can work together to create policies that support the growth and vitality of New York’s nightlife scene.

34. What is your opinion of Eric Adams as New York City Mayor? Are you involved in finding someone to run for Mayor of New York City?

I have concerns about Eric Adams’s tenure as New York City Mayor. However, my focus is on ensuring that the city is led by individuals who prioritize the needs of all residents and communities. While I’m not directly involved in finding someone to run for Mayor of New York City, I support the democratic process and encourage the values and vision needed to address the city’s challenges effectively.

35. How can we mandate that every community do its share to have affordable housing and care for the recently arrived people?

We mandate every community’s contribution to affordable housing and support for newcomers by implementing fair housing policies, providing incentives for affordable housing development, promoting community outreach and education, collaborating with local organizations, and ensuring accountability through monitoring and enforcement.

36. Are you a sponsor of Good Cause Eviction S305 legislation?

I support Good Cause Eviction S305 legislation.

37. Do you support allowing legal Immigrants to vote in local elections?

Yes.