Dear Baltimore City Community Members,

Baltimore is my home and the place where I have chosen to raise my children. It is a place where diversity is embraced and everyone can shine. It is a place where I have contributed a lot to the community and the city, and I hope to continue to help others.

In addition to earning my doctorate, I have extensive experience as a physical therapist, including five years working for Baltimore City Public Schools. Traveling all over the city and working with children, in their schools and homes, provided me a glimpse of the lives of a diverse clientele who benefited from my services, and I wanted to do more to help kids. My passion led me to start my private practice and help found the JEWELS Inclusive School. I am still an active board member at JEWELS, driven to see it succeed and help others. In my private practice I work with children from all walks of life and engage with their families on a regular basis.

I wanted to bring my desire to contribute to the community, passion for helping kids, and my experience in the educational arena to the Baltimore City Democratic Central Committee.

POSITION: Democratic State Central Committees (SCC) members are elected for a four year term in each jurisdiction of Maryland by voters according to legislative district. Central Committee members are important voices within the Democratic Party and, as a member, I would have the opportunity to meet other officials, express my opinions and vote for vacancies in public office during my 4-year term.

I, along with three others from the Orthodox community, are vying for 4 seats on the committee in my district, District 41. There are 7 positions that get filled – you can vote for up to 7 people (you do not have to use all 7 votes).

QUALIFICATIONS: Serving on the Democratic Central Committee is an opportunity to be a voice for the people.  Education is a leading issue in Baltimore City, and I believe that everyone needs quality representation, including children with special needs and their families.  Bringing my educational background with a doctorate degree, my experience as a pediatric physical therapist, my five years working for Baltimore City Public Schools, and as the owner of a therapy business, I want to ensure that all children, especially those with special needs, have access to resources, skills, and opportunities to reach their own unique potential.

PARTICIPATION OF UNAFFILIATED VOTERS: You must be a registered Democrat to vote for me. Since Baltimore is influenced by the Democratic Party, I believe it is important to encourage other voters to register for the party and voice their opinions. I believe that if the party is more inclusive, it can attract and appeal to more voters. One reason I am running is to ensure that the Democratic Party has leaders who represent various communities and who are not career politicians.

PRIORITIES FOR PARTY: Issues that take priority include raising standards/opportunity in education for everyone, investing in infrastructure for the future, making our neighborhoods safe, and making Baltimore City at attractive and appealing place to live.

FILLING VACANCIES IN OFFICE: During my 4-year term I would have the ability to vote along with the other members of the SCC to fill positions that open. Vacancies in office should be filled by qualified individuals who are capable of understanding our local schools, residence and communities. We need strong leadership that is committed to understanding issues and accepting accountability to take appropriate action.

Currently 3 of the 4 legislators (one State Senator and three Delegates) representing our district were voted in by the Central Committee rather than the public. Yitzy Schleifer had a seat on the Central Committee but is not running for that position, instead focusing on his city council duties. Without every single vote from our community (and votes from beyond), we could end up without any Orthodox Jews on the Central Committee for the next four years.

Please let me know that I can count on your support. It would mean so much to me if I can put my sign in front of your home and/or meet with your neighbors. If you have free time to volunteer, your time would be greatly appreciated. Please click here to contact me. Help me make a difference!!!

Sincerely,

Shevy Friedman, DPT