In keeping with a commitment to empowering Ghanaian Americans through civic and political action, the Ghana Diaspora Political Action Committee - USA (GHPAC) is endorsing Owusu Anane (D-NY) for the 109th District Seat in the New York State Assembly. The primary election is scheduled for Tuesday, June 25.

Anane, the son of Ghanaian immigrants, is a schoolteacher and small business owner who has been a passionate advocate for the Pine Hills neighbourhood since his days volunteering for Barack Obama's 2008 presidential campaign and interning for then-Assemblymember Hakeem Jeffries. His dedication to public service and his diverse background make him "uniquely qualified."

Anane aims to become the first person of colour to represent Albany at the state level, focusing on increasing funding for education, supporting small businesses, and securing more resources for local municipalities. His commitment to the Ghanaian community and his proven track record of advocacy have garnered him significant support as he seeks to bring a new generation of leadership to the New York State Assembly. He is running to represent Albany, Guilderland, and New Scotland.

"We are thrilled to endorse Owusu Anane for the 109th district New York State Assembly seat. Owusu's dedication to community, proven record in local government, and passion for public service make him an exceptional candidate. Owusu is the definition of showing up and doing good. We believe his historic candidacy as the first person of colour to represent Albany at the state level is a significant milestone for our community.

Owusu will be a needed added voice for Ghanaian immigrants and their descendants at the highest levels of the New York government. He embodies the leadership and advocacy we need for a brighter future," said Adjoa Kyerematen of the Ghana Diaspora Political Action Committee.

"I just want to say I appreciate everything that GHPAC is doing. Everyone needs to have a seat at the table. It's important, particularly, that our diverse backgrounds, as sons and daughters of Ghanaian immigrants or supporters of the Ghanaian community, come together, no matter where we are in the United States.

The Ghanaian community is just growing in the Capital region, and we need someone to lead and be a good partner to make sure that their needs and issues are addressed. We've never had a person of colour at the state level, and I think that it's time; we need someone at the seat who has lived experience with the issues that we are all going through right now," said Owusu Anane (D-NY) in a meeting with the GHPAC Founding Council on Tuesday evening.

Owusu is running on the following issues:

• Making Housing Affordable for Working Families

• Closing the Racial Education Gap

• Addressing Crime and Public Safety

• Protecting Economic Opportunities and Driving State Aid to Local Municipalities

Anane is also pushing for a community centre to help facilitate resources for the thriving Ghanaian community in Albany.

Ghanaians living in New York contribute significantly to the state's cultural, economic, and social fabric. Ghanaians contribute through entrepreneurship, owning businesses in various sectors such as retail, healthcare, and technology. They create job opportunities, contribute to the tax base, and stimulate economic growth. Ghanaians in New York also contribute to the state's healthcare sector, working as doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals.

Their expertise and dedication help improve healthcare access and quality for New York residents. Furthermore, Ghanaians in New York actively participate in community service and volunteerism, supporting local initiatives and charitable causes. They also engage in cultural exchanges, promoting understanding and appreciation of Ghanaian culture among New Yorkers.