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From the Opinion Page, Buffalo News: “What does it mean to be Latino?”, by Alberto O. Cappas, Thursday, September 18, 2025: Note: Alberto O. Cappas is the author of “Back to the Twilight Zone, a Puerto Rican Colony in Buffalo, NY”, and is the publisher of the Buffalo Latino Village, and the co-publisher of the East Harlem Journal. Read More From This Writer All Post Art Books & Poems Business Column Community Community News Education Entertainment español Food & Culture Health Interviews Media Military & Veterans Music Peace People Photography Politics Sports Technology From the Opinion Page, Buffalo News: “What does it mean to be Latino?” by Alberto O. Cappas September 22, 2025/ From the Opinion Page, Buffalo News: “What does it mean to be Latino?”, by Alberto O. Cappas, Thursday, September 18,… Read More COMMUNITY LEADERS RALLY BEHIND “CHRISTIAN PARRA” FOR STATE SENATE September 7, 2025/ By Alberto O. Cappas BUFFALO, NY — With the recent vacancy of Senator “Sean Ryan’s” seat in the 61st District,… Read More TOO MUCH OF A BASEBALLFIELD TO HANDLE August 7, 2025/ By Alberto O. Cappas These are hard and confusing times for jounaliststhose trying to tell a story, report the news,… Read More Load More End of Content.

By Alberto O. Cappas BUFFALO, NY — With the recent vacancy of Senator “Sean Ryan’s” seat in the 61st District, a wave of grassroots momentum is building behind longtime organizer and advocate “Christian Parra” as the community’s choice to represent them in Albany. “Parra” has earned widespread trust through years of tireless advocacy with PUSH Buffalo and other justice-centered organizations. Known for walking alongside families, listening deeply, and standing firm in the face of injustice, supporters say his leadership is grounded in lived experience, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to the people. “Christian isn’t just a leader—he’s one of us,” said “Dennis Matos,” community advocate and local business owner. “He’s lived our struggles, stood with us in the fight, and never lost sight of who he’s fighting for. We trust him to represent us—not corporate interests.” A sharp and informed policy advocate, “Parra” has consistently challenged legislation that harms Buffalo’s communities. He’s played a key role in advancing the Community Climate and Protection Act, bail reform (including speedy trial and discovery), HALT Solitary Confinement, housing justice, and anti-gentrification efforts. “Christian embodies the kind of leadership our community deserves,” said “Kawiye Jumale,” Somali civic leader. “He leads with courage, listens with humility, and fights with a vision that puts equity and opportunity front and center.” If elected, “Parra” would bring a fresh, unapologetic perspective to Albany—one shaped by years of organizing, coalition-building, and legislative wins. He has mobilized hundreds to the Capitol to block harmful policies and champion bills that uplift working families, immigrants, and marginalized communities. Locally, his impact is undeniable. “Parra” has knocked on thousands of doors, trained hundreds of emerging leaders, and built pathways for everyday residents to engage in collective action. Though his organizing spans over 30 states, his heart remains firmly rooted in Buffalo. Supporters say his candidacy offers more than hope—it offers a turning point. They believe “Parra’s” leadership is not only timely, but necessary to reshape the political landscape and reconnect it with the realities of everyday people. “This moment demands more than politics as usual,” added “Jumale.” “It demands someone who knows the pain, the promise, and the power of our communities. That someone is Christian Parra.” Read More From This Writer All Post Art Books & Poems Business Column Community Community News Education Entertainment español Food & Culture Health Interviews Media Military & Veterans Music Peace People Photography Politics Sports Technology TOO MUCH OF A BASEBALLFIELD TO HANDLE August 7, 2025/ By Alberto O. Cappas These are hard and confusing times for jounaliststhose trying to tell a story, report the news,… Read More Simple Language, Simple man: DONALD TRUMP AND THE COMING OF THE STORM – Part 1 March 31, 2025/  He wasted no time to act on his evil nature upon taking office on January 20th. He is a little… Read More QUESTION ABOUT PUERTO RICANS IN BUFFALO, NY: DOES THE CITY OF BUFFALO HAVE A STRONG PUERTO RICAN COMMUNITY? March 31, 2025/ Buffalo does not have a strong Puerto Rican community. However, there is a concentrated pocket of Puerto Ricans living on… Read More Load More End of Content.