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Meet LaMonica
Why LaMonica?
On September 23, LaMonica McIver was sworn into Congress to serve out the remaining term of the late Representative Donald J. Payne, Jr. after winning the special election on September 18 and special primary on July 16. She is the first Black woman to represent the CD-10 and the youngest ever to be elected to the United States House of Representative from New Jersey. And this is not the beginning of her record-breaking in elected office. In 2018, LaMonica was elected as the youngest woman ever to the Newark Council where she proudly served as Council President for the past 7 years. She has been a stalwart champion for the needs and aspirations of every resident of Newark’s Central Ward and now she’s doing the same for all who live and work in CD10.
LaMonica knows far too many families are struggling to make ends meet, facing skyrocketing costs of food, housing, healthcare, and education. She also sees the devastating impact of climate change playing out throughout the district in the form of catastrophic flooding that is threatening lives, homes, and livelihoods. Too often, these challenges are treated as separate issues, but they are deeply interconnected and require comprehensive solutions that LaMonica is committed to work on in Washington.
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LaMonica is deeply committed to addressing the challenges of the district holistically. She is a champion for policies that promote affordability, equity, and environmental sustainability, ensuring that no one is left behind. She strives to build upon the solid foundation of great public serve set by Congressman Payne Sr. & Congressman Payne Jr. and create a brighter future for the district, one where every voice is heard, every person is valued, and every community thrives.
About LaMonica
Hailing from the heart of Newark’s Central Ward, LaMonica McIver is a dedicated public servant focused on nurturing communities and empowering the next generation. A proud product of the Newark educational system, her passion for public service was ignited by esteemed mentors like Mildred Crump, Ras Baraka and other local leaders during her foundational years.
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LaMonica’s foray into politics began precociously at just 13, mobilizing youth and underscoring the power of civic participation. This early immersion, combined with her academic achievements – an English Literature degree from Bloomfield College and a master’s in educational leadership and policy from Seton Hall University – set her on a path that seamlessly blended education and governance.
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Her distinguished tenure in the educational sector, notably as Personnel Director for Montclair Public Schools, is a testament to her leadership. LaMonica’s rise from a Future Business Leader for Newark Public Schools to pivotal HR roles across various public school districts showcases her adaptability, vision, and unparalleled commitment to institutional growth; to her most recent role as Public Affairs Manager with PSE&G.
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Beyond her professional accolades, LaMonica's heart beats for Newark. In 2012, she founded Newark G.A.L.S., Inc., an organization fiercely devoted to fostering female leaders of tomorrow. With her guidance, Newark G.A.L.S has touched the lives of over 3,000 young women through its transformative initiatives, leaving an indelible mark on the city's future.
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LaMonica’s role in the political arena, particularly as the youngest woman ever elected to the Newark Municipal Council in 2018 to serving as Council President and now as the Congressional Representative from CD-10, breaks barriers and redefines possibilities.
Her journey from a young Newark girl with a dream to a national thought leader positions LaMonica McIver as a shining exemplar of dedication, empowerment, and transformative leadership. And she’s just getting started…
Her journey from a young Newark girl with a dream to a national thought leader positions LaMonica McIver as a shining exemplar of dedication, empowerment, and transformative leadership. And she’s just getting started…