QUEENS, NY – Assembly Member Aravella Simotas, one of New York State’s leading advocates for women’s rights, on February 17 endorsed Costa Constantinides as the progressive choice for Queens Borough President.

“Costa is a champion for green initiatives,” said Assembly Member Simotas. “Horrific threats to our climate are happening in real time — we need people like Costa who work tirelessly to prevent further damage to our planet. He genuinely cares about Queens and making our borough a better, greener, and fairer place for everyone who lives here. I am so excited to endorse him to be our next Queens Borough President.”

“I am so thankful to have the support of Aravella Simotas, who has been a thoughtful ally in fighting for a better Astoria,” said Costa Constantinides, progressive Democrat for Queens Borough President. “She has continually fought to advance women’s rights throughout our entire state, and I’m so excited she’s ready to transform Queens.”

Constantinides and Simotas’ partnership stretches over a decade to make Astoria a stronger place for family. They’ve especially called on the Metropolitan Transportation Authority to make Astoria’s elevated subway stations accessible with elevators for parents with strollers, people with disabilities, and the elderly. When Constantinides called on Borough Presidents to have a seat on the MTA board — someone who can fight for these issues — Simotas introduced a bill in Albany to give Queens a voice on the influential body.

Both lawmakers have taken tremendous pride in being Greek-American elected officials who represent Astoria. In January 2011, Simotas became one of the first two Greek-American women elected officials in New York City. Three years later, Constantinides became the first Greek-Cypriot-American to serve in the City Council.

Costa Constantinides currently serves in the New York City Council, where he represents western Queens and chairs the Committee on Environmental Protection. His legislative accomplishments include the Climate Mobilization Act, a Green New Deal for New York City, as well as the historic 80% reduction by 2050 of carbon emissions commitment. Costa lives in his native Astoria with his wife and son.

For more information, visit: www.votecosta.com.