President

149th South Ozone Park Civic Association

Aracelia is supporting a community science project on groundwater flooding as part of the Thriving Earth Exchange at the American Geophysical Union.

She/Her

I worked as a School Secretary with the Department of Education for over 30 years, where I actively advocated for parents of children with special needs. During this time, I served as a chapter leader with the United Federation of Teachers and as a delegate for both the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) and New York State United Teachers (NYSUT). I am also a member of the AFT Black Caucus, New York State Chapter.

Following my retirement, I pursued higher education at Queens College, earning a B.A./M.A. in Urban Studies with a 4.0 GPA in May 2019. Shortly after graduation, I was offered a teaching position at the college, where I taught the course “Poverty and Affluence,” which explored topics such as environmental racism, preparing me for continued work in environmental justice.

I currently serve as President of both the 149th Street South Ozone Park Civic Association and the Inwood Street Block Association. I actively attend Community Board 12 meetings and am a member of the Southeast Queens Residents Environmental Justice Coalition (SQREJC). In response to the November 2019 sewage backup, I collaborated with local elected officials and the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), conducting door-to-door outreach, coordinating meal distribution with local churches, and supporting displaced residents, particularly seniors in temporary housing.

Through SQREJC, I continue to address issues related to groundwater, flooding, air quality, and other environmental concerns. I am also a member of the 113th Precinct Council, where I’ve contributed to events such as Prom Day, National Night Out Against Crime, and a community holiday celebration organized in partnership with local organizations. I maintain strong ties with the DEP to ensure residents continue receiving support related to environmental and infrastructure issues.