Harlem Highs-Personal Politics with Landon Dais

story and photos by Jocelyn M. Goode

Intimacy and openness on a Monday night may not be typical in the rich, gritty complexity of Harlem, but it was definitely the spirit of Landon Dais' fundraiser dinner at Trattoria Amici. Beautiful and intelligent supporters convened to break bread in allegiance to the green politician who strives to continue a legacy of community improvement from the ground up.

Landon Dais, a proud Morehouse and Columbia graduate, personally greeted his guests spending time throughout the evening to learn about them and share his visions as an up-and-coming advocate for Harlem's district 9. As professionals, emerging and established, consumed Italian cuisine, they also enjoyed the opportunity to exchange ideas with each other and revelled in the quaint gathering of like-minded contemporaries.

At the peak of the event, Landon shared his projections for Harlem and his intentions for running for City Council, which center around a commitment to improving youth development, strengthening families and supporting small businesses. It was clear that his experience as the President of the Uptown Democratic Club (70th Assembly District) and Program Consultant for the Harlem Congregations for Community Improvement spurred him to take on this next step in political leadership.

Erica Nailor, one of the event coordinators for Landon's campaign, spread her warm personality making sure guests properly completed their donation cards which are instrumental in receiving matching funds. The cool, calm and collected campaign treasurer Anthony Ross, was the pinnacle of support, attentive to all the details of the fundraiser yet readily available to breakdown numbers and statistics.

While there was a surplus of seats reserved for those supporters who were absent, the seats that were occupied contained the rock and roots of Landon's bourgeoning campaign. Only the 'bout it, 'bout it turn out on a Monday night but the tour de force was undeniable as the dinner proved to be a success that was felt beyond words. To learn more about Landon Dais and his campaign, visit www.harlem4landon.blogspot.com and watch him on BET's Harlem Heights.