PERUVIAN ORGANIZATION FORMS TO SUPPORT ANDRE SAYEGH FOR MAYOR OF PATERSON

(PATERSON, NJ– April 23, 2018)—Peruvians for Andre, a Peruvian community organization that formed independently to support Councilman Andre Sayegh for Paterson mayor, praised the sixth ward councilman’s vision for the city’s future, and his potential to unify the many segments of Paterson’s diverse community.

“Much like an Inca warrior, Andre is a proven fighter who has endured hard fought battles. He understands the political landscape of Paterson and we are confident he will be a great mayor,” said Kat Esquiche, the first Peruvian elected to office in New Jersey.

Paterson’s status as a center of Peruvian culture was made official when a stretch of downtown Paterson was designated “Peru Square.”  The growth of Peruvian religious, cultural, and political organizations within the city of Paterson exemplifies how Peruvians have created an effective support structure for themselves in Paterson and have become a powerful and significant voting force in city elections.

According to Kat Esquiche, the grassroots movement of ‘Peruvians for Andre’ is working full force this election.  This movement initially hit the pavement during the 2016 explosive council race for the Sixth Ward.  Through non-stop canvassing, house gatherings, phone banks, and fundraisers, this group had a significant impact on Andre Sayegh successful re-election.

“The current movement known as ‘Paterson’s Inca Trail’ has spent weeks registering new voters and is pounding the pavement securing support of registered Peruvian voters in the city of Paterson,” added Esquiche.  “Peruvians for Andre will be out in full force until the polls close on May 8th.”

Due to non-profit status, the largest professional, cultural, and religious Peruvian organizations can not endorse a candidate.  This has not prevented key players of the Peruvian community, such as the current and former presidents of the Peruvian Parade — Mario Lopez and Dr. Carlos Tello– as well as current board members of the largest Peruvian religious organizations in Paterson– Arturo Sanchez and Rodolfo Romero– from working independently on Andre’s mayoral election.

“Bringing all of Paterson’s diverse communities together is my vision for moving our city forward,” said Councilman Andre Sayegh.  “I am humbled by support from the Peruvians in Paterson and all of the other diverse constituencies that are working toward my goal for a united Paterson that works for residents and families in every ward throughout our city.”

Paterson’s municipal elections are May 8. Voters will cast ballots for mayor and three at-large council seats.

Andre Sayegh has represented Paterson’s sixth ward since he was first elected to the Paterson City Council in 2008, and previously served on the Paterson Board of Education. For more information about the campaign, visit www.andresayegh.com.