Teaneck's diversity is not an abstract idea. It lives in our neighborhoods, houses of worship, schools, businesses, community organizations, family traditions, languages, music, food and art. It is part of what makes Teaneck distinctive - and it can play a greater role in helping our community thrive.
Celebrating diversity should mean more than recognizing a few cultural occasions each year. It should mean creating consistent opportunities for residents to share their traditions, form relationships across communities and participate in shaping the life of the town.
Teaneck First believes cultural programming can also support economic development. Festivals, performances, art exhibitions, neighborhood markets, restaurant events and heritage celebrations can attract visitors, generate customers for local businesses and create opportunities for Teaneck's artists, performers, entrepreneurs and nonprofit organizations.
Imagine a coordinated calendar of events that brings activity to Cedar Lane, Teaneck Road, State Street and other parts of town throughout the year. A cultural event might introduce residents to a local restaurant they have never visited, bring customers into nearby shops or give a young performer their first public audience. When planned responsibly, these activities can strengthen both community relationships and the local economy.
This vision is grounded in the experience of the Teaneck First candidates.
Deputy Mayor Denise Belcher brings municipal experience and an understanding of how government, community organizations and business districts can work together. George Fernandez Jr., a union vice president and Teaneck small-business owner, understands the realities facing working people and local entrepreneurs. Duane Harley, Esq., brings legal judgment, his own law-practice experience and a decade of service advising Teaneck's Planning Board and Youth Advisory Board.
Their combined experience can help Teaneck move from occasional cultural recognition to a thoughtful strategy for community and economic vitality.
Teaneck does not need to manufacture an identity. Our identity already exists in the people who live here. The opportunity before us is to celebrate it more fully, connect it to our commercial districts and ensure that every community sees itself reflected in the life of the town.
Our diversity is not simply something Teaneck has. It is something we can build upon.
Teaneck First believes that when residents are seen, heard and invited to participate, the entire town becomes stronger.
Learn more and join us at teaneckfirst.com.
