Mariama James is a lifelong Manhattan resident, a proud mother of three, and an Assembly District 65 District Leader. Born in Harlem and raised in the Southbridge Towers, a Mitchell-Lama co-op, Mariama has lived in the same home since she was three months old. The same home where she raised her children, and where she lives now.
Mariama comes from a family rooted in both labor and justice. Her parents were civil rights activists who taught her that public service is the key to a healthy community. Her grandfather was one of only three Black men who helped construct the original Twin Towers. Through his work, her family found their home in Lower Manhattan.
After September 11, Mariama experienced devastation firsthand. Nearly nine months pregnant and living just blocks from ground zero, she watched as dust and debris filled her home and her neighborhood. Her children developed chronic pulmonary issues. Years later, the toxic aftermath claimed both of her parents to 9/11-related cancer.
That loss became a lifelong mission. For more than two decades, Mariama has been a leading advocate for 9/11 survivors and responders, helping push the passage, reauthorization, and expansion of the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act- federal legislation that secured healthcare and compensation for over 140,000 New Yorkers. Her advocacy helped transform New York’s grief into lasting federal protections.
Housing affordability remains deeply personal to Mariama. Growing up in Mitchell-Lama housing allowed her family to stay and build a life in Lower Manhattan. She believes that “aging in place” should not be a privilege, but a right for every resident in the 65th district. She has not just spoken about affordability, but has delivered results.
