Yahay Obeid emerges Bronx Community Board 11 Chair, reinstates commitment to service

Yahay Obeid has emerged as the chairman of the Bronx Community Board 11’s next Chairman.

While disclosing this via his Facebook page on Friday June 24, 2022, Obeid stated that it’s not about titles. “It’s about continuing to have the sleeves rolled up and working hard for the community.”

“I would like to start by thanking all of you for your hard work and commitment to Community Board 11. It’s a thankless job we do, but we all want to improve our community,” Obeid said.

“In accordance with the Community Board 11 Bylaws, please accept this statement as to why I seek the position of Chairperson of the Board.”

Accepting the nomination, Obeid said, “It was not easy because I take my position on the Board and in the community seriously. As you know, the pay is not great, but I see myself as a continuum of positive change. I want to be your champion for what’s right and best for all.”

He added, “I have relationships with many of you, but for those of you who don’t know me, I joined the Community Board in 2016, becoming the Vice Chair in 2020.

“Originally from Yemen, I did not learn English until I came to the United States at eight years old. As a result, I know adversity and what discrimination feels like.

“I know what it feels like to be questioned by the FBI, to be targeted by a City agency, to be attacked for my personal opinions and beliefs, and to be ignored by the government. But despite the negativity, I do my best to push everyone in a positive direction.

“In 2005, I started my civil service career by working for the United States Department of Homeland Security. (Currently, I work for the FAA.) In 2018, I was selected to serve on the NYC Civil Engagement Commission Advisory Board. I was also a member of the Neighborhood Initiatives Development Corporation Board, the NYPD Auxiliaries, and the School Leadership Team at PS 83. Lastly, I’m an active member of the 49th Precinct Community Council, the Morris Park Community Association (currently its Vice President) and the Bronx Muslim Center.

“It is my hope that you will give me your vote of confidence on June 23, and if you are not yet prepared to vote for me, I’d very much like to understand why because as chairperson, my success depends on each and everyone of you. I have an open door policy and am here for any one of you any time of the day.”