Ras J. Baraka Profile Banner
Ras J. Baraka Profile
Ras J. Baraka

@rasjbaraka

18,291
Followers
1,222
Following
403
Media
12,126
Statuses

Reimagine New Jersey

Newark, NJ
Joined June 2009
Don't wanna be here? Send us removal request.
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
4 years
Why It's Time to Adopt MLK JR.'s Idea of Guaranteed Income
19
202
828
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
4 years
Today Newark had more COVID-19 cases than every other city in Essex County combined! We are witnessing a serious spike and tomorrow we will begin taking serious measures. Wear your mask!
47
269
592
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
4 years
Here in Newark we are are working to develop a Universal Basic Income (UBI) pilot to help give families that would be destroyed by a $400 emergency, as statistics show, get a leg up or have a foundation. “Wherever the American city is going, Newark will get there first.”
14
151
565
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
2 years
I tested positive for COVID yesterday and thankfully my wife and son tested negative. By the grace of God I'm okay and have no symptoms at all. I'm going to retest on Friday and Monday as well, and I thank everyone for your well wishes. Please wear your masks and get vaccinated!
116
55
437
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
9 months
Newark is in mourning. We’ve lost a favorite daughter, cherished and revered. Long before she was Lieutenant Governor, Sheila Oliver mentored so many in our city – with wisdom, compassion, intelligence, and a fierce dedication to diversity, equality, equity, and justice. 1/
20
62
378
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
4 years
Historic day in Essex County! The police chiefs gathered to condemn the murder of George Floyd and all others! I led them all to take a knee as I said for the same reason @Kaepernick7 lost his career. We will take a knee for George Floyd. This is not the end but the beginning.
27
153
326
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
4 years
Put on a damn mask!!!
18
121
310
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
4 years
In keeping with the movement to remove symbols of oppression and white supremacy, we have decided to remove the statue of Christopher Columbus from Washington Park. (1/3)
27
76
305
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
4 years
Big thank you to Josh Harris and the @NJDevils organization for their 6 figure donation towards our efforts to make sure those that need food in these uncertain times get it. Thank you for being a great partner.
1
50
267
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
8 years
My father was tried in 67 rebellion as they read his poem in court as inciting violence and these folks have real guns take bldng and freed
@nytimes
The New York Times
8 years
Breaking News: Ammon Bundy and 6 followers acquitted in takeover of Oregon wildlife refuge
151
355
227
3
178
201
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
3 years
Today we took 3 families living in public housing and used their Section 8 voucher to put them in a brand new home. They went from renters to homeowners, paid no down payment, and the money they’re getting from the voucher will be used to pay mortgage.
Tweet media one
Tweet media two
Tweet media three
Tweet media four
8
62
201
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
4 years
In complete and total solidarity with the players of the NBA. Courageous, historic, and will have a deep impact!!!
6
34
174
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
3 years
Bills and rent come monthly, relief should too. That’s why I’ve joined 33 other mayors, as part of @mayorsforagi , to call for recurring checks until the end of the pandemic. See our ad in this week’s @TIME #onemorecheckisnotenough
Tweet media one
3
64
176
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
4 years
Today we gave away masks and gloves in all five wards of the city. While they keep talking we keep building. #NewarkStrong
Tweet media one
Tweet media two
Tweet media three
Tweet media four
15
44
171
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
9 days
Expect us to take this to the streets, date & time forthcoming
Tweet media one
12
53
161
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
3 years
Today I joined @govmurphy in announcing his forward thinking effort to move our city & state forward by investing $100 million in clean transportation solutions to combat climate change and improve air quality for cities like ours.
Tweet media one
19
20
154
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
2 years
Looking forward to joining @VP , @EPAMichaelRegan and @GovMurphy to celebrate the completion of Newark’s lead service line replacement program and to discuss the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that will help replace lead service lines in communities across the country.
@JDSalant
Jonathan D. Salant
2 years
. @VP Kamala Harris returns to N.J. Friday to highlight federal push to remove lead water pipes
12
22
48
15
37
139
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
2 years
This is an incredible and historic day in America! On behalf of Newark residents, congratulations to Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson for being appointed to the Supreme Court of the United States.
9
20
136
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
4 years
As of tonight we now have one possibly two confirmed cases of coronavirus in Newark. We will address at press conference tomorrow at 12. We are monitoring closely while they are on home confinement.
18
132
135
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
2 years
I’m proud to have renamed Washington Park to Harriet Tubman Square in honor of the abolitionist on #Juneteenth here in Newark. We look forward to unveiling a monument in the square in her honor this fall.
Tweet media one
4
30
118
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
4 years
The removal of this statue should not be perceived as an insult to the Italian-American community. It is a statement against the barbarism, enslavement, and oppression that this explorer represents. (3/3)
21
16
118
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
22 days
In the chaos of NJ politics this year, one thing that’s gone under the radar is the fact that the New Jersey Democrats are, right now, pushing a bill on #schoolvouchers . We’ve got to squash this before it ever gets started! 🧵
Tweet media one
13
47
120
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
7 years
Been waiting for days to hear all of the people that spoke against Colin Kapernick to say something about Charlottesville. Still nothing.
9
66
113
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
2 years
On behalf of Newark residents, thank you Madam @VP and @EPAMichaelRegan for visiting today to celebrate our lead line replacement milestone with us and for discussing the importance of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. We appreciate the great work that you’re doing!
6
32
107
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
3 years
Congratulations to President-elect @JoeBiden and Vice President-elect @KamalaHarris and thank you to every Newarker who voted in this historic election. (1/7)
4
14
109
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
7 years
This is a methodical way to take us back to Jim Crow and Russians are not responsible for this.
@BrennanCenter
Brennan Center
7 years
At least 99 bills to restrict access to registration and voting have been introduced in 31 states.
Tweet media one
3
176
68
2
106
102
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
4 years
This is one of the moments we’ve been working toward, a moment when we can say our water is in compliance, where the facts speak for themselves.
@CityofNewarkNJ
City of Newark
4 years
Trace Levels of Lead in Newark Water Drops Again and Now Below National Safety Standards #NewarkNews
Tweet media one
2
10
26
3
19
103
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
4 years
Re-opening too fast will be “lethal” to our community
Tweet media one
9
35
102
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
3 years
We are pleased to remain New Jersey’s largest city and top the 300,000 population mark. However, the most important results of the 2020 Census are not if our city is the largest in New Jersey, but that our increasing number of residents – (1/4)
3
15
100
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
1 year
Today, I visited @NPS_SciencePark with @GovMurphy where he announced the expansion of AP African American Studies. The study of African American History ensures children learn a complete picture of what makes America, America.
Tweet media one
Tweet media two
Tweet media three
Tweet media four
8
16
98
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
4 years
Task force details how to launch Newark universal basic income program
4
41
91
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
4 years
The life of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg was the personification of the progression and the advancement of those that needed her most. The Country mourns the loss of a true pioneer that has strengthened the lives of all Americans.
3
15
91
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
4 years
This year we had the largest reduction in homicides since 1951 and had a thousand less victims of crime thanks to the hard work of @NewarkNJPolice and our partners in the community. This is great progress but we still have much more work to do. #NewarkForward
10
30
89
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
3 years
Unfortunately this is not surprising. It is the result of the coddling of a tyrant. It is the logical result of 70 million Americans voting for narcissism over democracy. It is the result of ignoring centuries of white supremacy and privilege, for flying the confederate flag as…
6
18
90
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
3 years
Last week we broke ground for a brand new 24 hour shelter for residents without addresses. Today we are opening low barrier container homes for the most difficult to house. This is the first of many to come.
Tweet media one
Tweet media two
Tweet media three
Tweet media four
10
22
86
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
8 days
We are saddened at the loss of Representative Donald M. Payne Jr. All of Newark sends our love and deepest condolences to his wife, children, and all of his loved ones.
Tweet media one
2
30
87
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
4 years
Newark is testing homeless and in fact are providing safe houses for them. Also in the process of securing more space for that purpose. We are fitting proper masks on our workers that are in contact. Our homeless commission still meeting remotely.
1
38
81
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
4 years
The biggest threat to our democracy was displayed last night during the presidential debate. Trump’s refusal to condemn white supremacy and to tell groups to ‘STAND BACK and STAND BY’ is equivalent to a pre-emptive war on black and brown people and everyone of good will. GO VOTE!
6
24
78
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
4 years
We took it down with City work crews in a safe and orderly manner, to avoid the potential danger of people taking it upon themselves to topple it. (2/3)
2
14
79
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
4 years
Today we started testing at Stephen Crane Elderly. We are doing all senior buildings in partnership with @NewarkPHA . Over 5000 seniors. On Wednesday we will set up a testing site at Branch Brook Park for residents of North and Central Ward but open to all. #StayHome #NewarkStrong
Tweet media one
Tweet media two
Tweet media three
3
28
79
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
4 years
Source of Knowledge is the only black-owned bookstores in our city helping us learn knowledge of self and reminding us that black is beautiful everyday
2
41
73
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
3 years
Today we cut the ribbon for Adenah Bayoh’s 4th IHOP and 2nd one in Newark. She also opened a Cornbread franchise right next door and will be opening an urban vegan Cafe as well. All in commercial retail space she owns, right below building she also owns that is 55% affordable.
Tweet media one
Tweet media two
Tweet media three
Tweet media four
4
16
71
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
2 years
From Comebaq Court to 777 McCarter, the City of Newark appreciates you @SHAQ for always coming back home and forever believing in Newark. Thanks to Boraie Development for your continued investment in our city— and thank you @GovMurphy and Commissioner @shawnlatur for joining us.
Tweet media one
Tweet media two
Tweet media three
Tweet media four
6
14
72
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
3 years
On behalf of the residents of the City of Newark, I am grateful for the Biden-Harris Administration, @fema , and @GovMurphy 's leadership in bringing more vaccines to us where we need them the most. This is our best scientific means for protection against #COVID19 .
@WHCOVIDResponse
White House COVID-19 Response Team
3 years
With this morning's announcement that we're standing up community vaccination centers in Boston, MA; Norfolk, VA; and Newark, NJ, we are now up to 25 federally-run mass vaccine sites -- one component of our efforts to make sure vaccines are distributed effectively and equitably.
20
170
726
9
15
72
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
4 years
While everyone is complaining how difficult the wall is, Siree Morris is laying one brick at a time and helping build up our community with affordable developments like “The Lofts at Avon.” #NewarkForward #HoldtheLine
3
15
68
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
7 years
Aug.21 1831 Nat Turner led a rebellion after a solar eclipse that he took as sign from God. Today we have our own eclipse.
3
46
67
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
4 years
Nearly three years ago, I signed a 10-page executive order to protect undocumented people from aggressive government intervention in their lives. I knew then that the fight to protect these people’s basic human rights was not over. (1/14)
8
20
65
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
10 years
We are the Mayor!!!!!
21
183
67
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
8 years
We dont need you to be colorblind. See that color has been used to dehumanize and destroy millions of Black people then rectify it.
1
47
64
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
21 days
They try to make us believe we're all so different, but housing/zoning discrimination originally aimed at Black people is now denying a new generation of young white families the right to own a home in the town they grew up.
2
20
65
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
3 years
Just visited one of our local crews replacing lead service lines. This is an African American & Latinx crew managed by a black woman and owned by Black people. Oh did I mention this is a $10 million contract? They keep talking while we keep building! #HoldtheLine
Tweet media one
Tweet media two
Tweet media three
5
11
58
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
3 years
On behalf of all of Newark and our residents, we applaud the jury for its decision in the Derek Chauvin case and congratulate Minnesota’s prosecutors for their work in bringing it about. (1/2)
2
14
58
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
4 years
Happy New Year! In 2020 I’m exciting to see all of the new development that will happen in the neighborhoods, transitional housing for the homeless, thousands of lead service lines replaced and much much more. Get involved. Get engaged. #NewarkForward
8
24
58
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
3 years
Today we announced a 100% affordable property that’ll be built on Halsey & Central Ave. It is special because it is the Kawaida Towers, a property that was stopped in the 70’s in Newark. We’re ecstatic that Mid-Atlantic, developers born out of Baxter Terrace, are co-developers.
Tweet media one
Tweet media two
Tweet media three
8
18
59
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
7 years
If you dislike people because of race, color, religion, who they love, gender, or rationalize your superiority please stay off my page!
3
18
57
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
7 days
Godspeed to you Congressman, Don Jr., Choppy. You will be missed, but not forgotten.
2
19
65
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
4 years
Tweet media one
2
17
52
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
4 years
Every Monday I am asking everyone to stay home and all businesses to close so we can stop the spread of COVID-19. I am calling it “Be Still Mondays.” #FlattenTheCurve #StayHome
Tweet media one
3
25
55
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
4 years
Support the Newark Chess Club. They’re building our young people academically & socially through chess. I witnessed how our entire cafeteria at Central was transformed because of chess. There were at 5+ games every lunch period. Thank you for the honor & great work you’re doing.
Tweet media one
Tweet media two
Tweet media three
0
17
56
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
7 years
Working hard with @CoryBooker @audible_com to bring @amazon to NJ's largest city, Newark. We have the transportation infrastructure..
3
22
55
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
8 months
It truly is a great day in Newark! @GovMurphy , other dignitaries, and I broke ground for the Mulberry Commons Pedestrian Bridge. With today’s groundbreaking, we enter the second phase that catapults the metamorphosis of downtown Newark. 1/3
Tweet media one
Tweet media two
Tweet media three
Tweet media four
14
13
55
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
4 years
UPDATE: We have located the woman that was reported to have tested positive for Coronavirus. Thank you everyone for your vigilance. If you have any questions please tune into the Virtual Town Hall tonight at 7pm.
7
24
52
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
4 years
I want to wish everyone a Happy #Juneteenth ! This Juneteenth you should create a book list with your friends, join or create an organization to uplift yourself, your family, and your community. Let’s create unity in our community.
2
18
54
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
2 years
Last night’s shooting was a despicable act of violence that will not be tolerated. We are investigating this incident thoroughly and will work to bring the individuals that wounded our residents and defiled our streets to justice.
10
12
54
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
7 months
The escalation of violence and inhumanity in Gaza and Israel is something the world has not witnessed in a long time. Here in Newark, we are working hard to develop systems that eradicate violence, diminish retaliation, and treat trauma as public health. 1/9
9
16
55
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
7 years
Trump pledges to take health care from millions while saying he wants to help inner cities by calling a comedian. Guess that's the gag.
3
41
53
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
4 years
The people of Newark today mourn the passing and loss of Calvin West, a Newark native who became the first African-American to win citywide office when he was elected to an at-large Council seat. (1/2)
Tweet media one
2
17
52
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
7 years
Great day in the city of Newark. Inclusionary Zoning Ordinance just passed 8=0!
7
21
50
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
6 years
Yesterday at Rutgers University @IAMQUEENLATIFAH great commencement speech by Dr. Queen Latifah.
Tweet media one
3
10
49
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
4 years
Supreme Court rules against shutting down DACA. Dreamers can continue to dream in sanctuary cities such as Newark and beyond.
2
15
47
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
4 years
Today I signed Executive Order No. MEO-20-0001. Learn what it means for Newark residents & businesses ( #COVID19 )
Tweet media one
3
40
48
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
2 years
My thoughts on the Supreme Court Overturning Roe v. Wade.
Tweet media one
4
19
50
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
4 years
While the Newark Public Schools are taking precautions in regard to the spread of the Coronavirus by closing schools for the next couple of weeks, we strongly expect for our children to be supervised and indoors, focusing on their school work during this time. (1/6)
3
21
47
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
2 years
My prayers and condolences go out to the Mtume family as the world mourns the loss of an incredible icon for our community and culture. Brother James Mtume wrote scores for films and hits for so many artists. His musical genius, body of work, & its influence still resonate...
7
6
47
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
4 years
Today we stood close to 2,000 strong. Mens breakfast talking about owning our block, communities, and our city. This is the build meeting the meeting that we begin to do for ourselves the day we become the majority!
Tweet media one
Tweet media two
Tweet media three
Tweet media four
4
14
47
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
17 days
Welcoming immigrants, treating them with dignity, respecting their journeys and upholding their human rights is the just, moral thing to do. Turns out, as we have always known, it's also sound economic policy. (1/2)
7
19
48
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
3 years
patriotism, and more importantly the covering of the ugliness of generations of inequity in multiple forms with American exceptionalism. They tolerated tyranny as long as it benefited them. This will not end with the removal of Trump but it’s a great start.
6
9
48
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
8 years
Historical and powerful moment for me. AAMuseum. Our stories will be told and lived! So many emotions...
Tweet media one
2
23
43
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
10 years
18
93
44
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
1 year
All of Newark is saddened to learn of the passing of former State Senator, Deputy Mayor, and Municipal Council Member Ronald L. Rice today.
11
14
47
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
7 years
On my way to work..wearing red in solidarity with A Day Without Woman
Tweet media one
0
5
42
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
3 years
Another family moved from Section 8 public housing to home ownership @SecFudge . This is an exciting program and incredible to see families with years in public housing get keys to a brand new home. Building wealth!
Tweet media one
Tweet media two
Tweet media three
7
15
45
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
4 years
It is important that we acknowledge and address the trauma that our children carry with them on a daily in school, so they can focus on learning and moving being successful
4
14
45
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
4 years
Tonight we lit @DowntownNewark ’s Christmas tree for all to see
1
7
46
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
2 years
Today, I had the opportunity to join Mayors Against Illegal Guns to discuss how Newark is combating gun violence and pushing towards a safer community. Always striving for a stronger and safer Newark.
Tweet media one
5
3
46
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
4 years
Nobody Would Have Guessed That Newark Would Be a Model for Fighting COVID-19. But It Is.
7
18
46
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
8 years
Worst moderating i have ever witnessed!
6
20
45
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
4 years
We quickly sent @NewarkPoliceDep over to help our sister city Jersey City. Grateful for our guys, and prayers to officers and their families that were injured.
1
12
45
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
7 years
200 going in to police academy. 60 women, majority Blk and Brown.
Tweet media one
4
11
45
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
4 years
Great being at Central High School this morning unveiling its new Environmental Studies Academy. Great partnership with @KeanUniversity and @PSEGdelivers . Take a look at the greenhouse built by students.
Tweet media one
Tweet media two
Tweet media three
Tweet media four
0
11
46
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
4 years
Today at 11:30am I will be giving an update on our efforts to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in Newark with new restrictions. Tune in on Facebook!
5
22
45
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
8 years
"I wake up everyday in a house built by slaves... " #FLOTUS #MichelleObama
0
26
42
@rasjbaraka
Ras J. Baraka
4 years
Stood with @GovMurphy today and legislators to sign two important Bills into law. The first allows for automatic expungement of records and gives people a clean slate after 10 yrs with no issues. The second restores voting rights to all on probation or parole in NJ. Great day!
Tweet media one
Tweet media two
Tweet media three
0
21
46