Local Activist Runs for Congress

Community activist Craig Schley announced Wednesday that he will run for Harlem’s Congressional seat this November.

Schley currently serves as the executive director of Voices of the Everyday People, a community group that recently brought a lawsuit against the city regarding the now-approved plan to rezone 125th Street. He will run for Congressional District 15, a seat that has been occupied by Congressman Charles Rangel (D-N.Y.) for the past 38 years.

Schley, a former male model, has characterized Rangel as misrepresentative of the community, and called his own candidacy “a grand opportunity ... to put money into this area.” Schley said he wants to use the ever-increasing demand for land for development in northern Manhattan to bring money into the community without altering the neighborhood’s culture.

“The entire 15th District can make money off of its culture, just like every other district can and does,” Schley said. He added that Harlem is being traumatized by overzealous development and lack of representation and foresight.

Schley, who will run as an Independent, was only recently placed on the ballot for November after gathering 6,000 signatures over the past five weeks. Candidates are required to gather at least 3,500.

In addition to Rangel, who is serving his 19th term, Schley will also run against Republican Edward Daniels.

Although Rangel is the current Chairman of the House’s Ways and Means Committee and one of the most senior representatives in Congress, Schley said he isn’t worried.
But Harlem Community Board 10 member Julius Tajiddin pointed out that Schley will also have to appeal to some Queens residents who are part of District 15. “It’s a Herculean task, and I wish him the best,” he said. “A lot of people from those areas, they don’t really see anything wrong with Charlie Rangel.”

“What Craig has to overcome [is] the fact that the people will question what has he done, where’s his track record,” Tajiddin added.

Campaign staff from Rangel’s district office did not return requests for comment.

daniel.amzallag@columbiaspectator.com