Latoya LeGrand

Latoya LeGrand was born in New York. She earned a bachelor's degree from City University of New York, John Jay College in 2006.

Her career experience includes working in government, nonprofit work, and education. She has been affiliated with Projects II Projects.[1]

Latoya LeGrand did not complete [the profile publisher]'s 2026 Candidate Connection survey.

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

Latoya LeGrand is a devoted advocate, community leader, and fierce champion for equity and opportunity in Southeast Queens. Raised in NYCHA housing and the foster care system, Latoya knows firsthand the struggles that too many families face—and she’s dedicated her life turning those challenges into fuel for change. Latoya LeGrand is ready to fight for housing rights, quality education, youth empowerment, and good jobs. She’s running to ensure every resident of Southeast Queens has the opportunity not just to survive, but to thrive.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Housing is a human right—and in Southeast Queens, too many families are burdened by unaffordable rents, unsafe conditions, and years of neglect in public housing. As someone who grew up in NYCHA and experienced housing insecurity firsthand, Latoya LeGrand is committed to fighting for safe, stable, and dignified housing for all. Through strong local leadership, budget advocacy, and legislative action, she will ensure that the needs of District 28’s tenants and public housing residents are not ignored.Latoya LeGrand has dedicated her life to uplifting young people—from mentoring youth in NYCHA developments to advocating for families navigating the education system. As Education Chair of Community Board 12Q and founder of a youth-focused nonprofit, she knows that our schools need more than test scores—they need resources, creativity, and care. She’s fighting for equitable education, robust after-school programming, and real pathways to opportunity.In Southeast Queens, our elders are the backbone of our communities. Latoya LeGrand believes that aging with dignity means more than just services—it means care, respect, and inclusion. Latoya is committed to policies that protect our elders and invest in their well-being.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

As someone who grew up in NYCHA and is a single mother, I’m deeply passionate about housing justice, education equity, and youth empowerment. My lived experience drives my commitment to creating policies that support working families, protect tenants and homeowners, and expand access to mental health, job training, and childcare. I believe in co-governance and centering community voice in every decision.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

I bring lived experience, deep community roots, and a track record of service. Growing up in NYCHA and the foster care system taught me resilience, compassion, and the importance of advocacy. I’ve worked in both the State Assembly and Senate, and I lead a nonprofit that delivers real resources to families in need. I listen, I organize, and I build coalitions. I’m committed to co-governance because I believe leadership means bringing people in—not speaking for them, but working with them to create lasting change.

Are there any little-known powers or responsibilities held by this office that you believe more people should be aware of?

Many people don’t realize that City Council Members have a major role in the city budget. We decide how billions of dollars are spent each year, including funding for schools, housing, youth programs, and local nonprofits. We also help shape land use and zoning decisions that affect what gets built in our neighborhoods. These powers can either reinforce inequality or be used to uplift our communities—and I’m committed to using them to bring real investment and accountability to Southeast Queens.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Working Families Party, Citizens Action, PSC-CUNY, The New Majority, NYS Senator James Sanders.