NYC Councilman Ydanis Rodriguez was elected in 2009. His passion for social justice spans 40 years. After immigrating in 1983, he became involved in the student movement successfully fighting against tuition increases and budget cuts. Ydanis received a Master’s Degree in Bi-lingual education from CUNY City College. An educator for thirteen years, Ydanis co-founded Gregorio Luperon HS and Washington Heights Health Academy. As a leading voice at the Council he has brought change in transportation, education, economic development, housing, police reform, healthcare, and environmental policy, ensuring low-income families have an equitable path to the middle class.
He advocated for workforce development in underrepresented communities through increased subsidies for public and private partnerships. Ydanis has spearheaded forty-six bills in his tenure. As Chairman of the Transportation Committee, he has passed sixteen bills improving safety for pedestrians and cyclists. He leads the charge for Fair Fares to make public transit affordable and started Car Free Day NYC.
In 2015, he presented a plan to help MTA raise revenue and make our transit system safer and efficient. His proudest accomplishment is being a devoted father to his daughters. Ydanis envisions a New York City where all children can reach their potential, a New York City for all.
