Local Black political leaders offer perspectives, words of wisdom
February 2025 – Drew University’s Student Government of the College of Liberal Arts organized and hosted the Black in Politics Forum, a panel discussion welcoming local Black politicians to offer advice and valuable insights into the field.
Moderated by Student Government President Zaire Wright C’27 and Program Coordinator of Diversity Muthoni Githinji C’24, the event is part of a series of student-led initiatives and celebrations to honor Black History Month.
The forum aimed to highlight the significant contributions of Black individuals in political spheres while addressing the challenges they face, centering on the personal experiences of the panelists.
The esteemed panelists included Derek Armstead, Mayor of Linden City; Ruby Cotton, City of Paterson Councilwoman, serving her thirteenth year in the same seat her husband filled 32 years ago; Frank Gilmore, City of Jersey City Councilman, who discovered politics at Rutgers University after overcoming a troubled childhood; Antwan McClellan, New Jersey Assemblyman; Angela V. McKnight, New Jersey Senator and the first African American assemblywoman, now serving her fourth term; Dahlia Vertreese, Mayor of Hillside and the first Hillside, New Jersey, mayor to serve two terms; and Joyce E. Watterman, Council President for the City of Jersey City and the first African American woman to serve as a councilwoman in Jersey City, New Jersey.
The group discussed the intersectionality of being a Black politician and the importance of public service. “You must be a voice for people who do not have a voice,” said one panelist, adding, “If you really want to help people, you have to go beyond and open doors.”
When asked what representation in politics looks like and how they achieve goals and overcome obstacles as people of color, the panelists shared several key points:
“Representation looks like me—being present, bringing real problems to the floor—directly.”
“Make sure the youth is uplifted.”
“Having a support system in place is important.”
“Your voice and diversity is important.”
“Educate yourself on different cultures.”
“We are all human, meet people where they are.”
“Treat people how you want to be treated.”
“People just want to be heard and their concerns to be taken seriously.”
“It’s about taking care of people.”
The panelists also shared their greatest accomplishment while in office. Cotton preserved a playground in honor of Martin Luther King Jr’s visit to Paterson, one of his final visits prior to his assassination in 1968. Vertreese implemented a cost-effective summer day camp and updated her community’s recreational center. McKnight ensured financial literacy is taught in middle schools and passed legislation on the CROWN Act (creating a respectful and open world for natural hair), while Waterman developed a DEI division.
“Just do it,” said Gilmore, when asked for advice in breaking into politics. The panelists echoed this sentiment, urging the audience to be compassionate, respectful, and, most importantly, to find something you’re passionate about in your community.
“You can do anything you want to do,” said Cotton.
The evening concluded with a dynamic Q&A session and a pre-recorded message from New Jersey Senator Cory Booker, who shared thoughts and inspiration surrounding Black History Month.
