By Nelson Cintron
Ward 14 is now home to an International Constituency. The New Ward 14 is a diverse, multicultural community comprised of many ethnicities other than just Hispanics. In my opinion, Ward 14 is not solely an “Hispanic Ward” any longer in consideration of the fact that the Cleveland City Council used old data from the 2010 Census to draw the maps without consideration for the true demographic transformation which has occurred over the last few years in Ward 14.
While walking throughout the New Ward 14 boundaries during the campaign; I met a diverse community at large. Neighborhoods that were once highly concentrated Hispanic areas are now occupied by many other ethnic groups; including a growing number of new African American families. The housing stock is now also comprised of enumerable abandoned homes or vacant lots which once were homes to Hispanics. Many of the Hispanic residents have moved out of the City or out of the State. While I am glad to have met so many beautiful new residents in Ward 14; I must be realistic using the “Hispanic Ward” as a guiding post. All residents from all backgrounds deserve equal representation. We must acknowledge this respectfully as we progress forward. Ultimately; I am proud that I have met so many beautiful residents who have supported me from different cultures.
No matter what background our residents come from; they all seek a quality of life to provide for their families. Parents of children want a good school system; safety; and a sense of security. Citizen complaints require responses to all persons. The inflated costs of living in Cleveland including higher property taxes and utilities with less quality infrastructure services continues to be a determining factor in people choosing to leave our area.
If the Hispanic Leadership wants to have an “Hispanic Ward” at large; then perhaps they should sell their homes in the suburbs and return to our community and lead by example to rebuild our city. I challenge the leaders who believe in our Ward 14 residents to commit themselves to improving the lives of all of our residents; not just the select few.
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