Born in Sierra Leone, West Africa, Emmanuel Findlay Jr. came to the United States in 2000, chasing a future built on the values he learned from his mother, a devoted missionary. “My mother worked tirelessly for the church, moving between Sierra Leone and the United States,” he recalls. “She raised us with a commitment to faith, community, and service. Though she passed away four years ago, her legacy remains deeply rooted in my life.”
Community service was at the heart of Findlay’s upbringing. His family organized annual coat drives and toy drives for their community, and he’s carried that tradition forward. “Although I haven’t been able to do it at the same level recently, especially with winter approaching, I’m planning to organize another coat drive this year. My grandmother, who was also a pastor, instilled in us that service to others is just part of who we are.”
Findlay’s journey into politics began in 2012, inspired by his mother’s community activism. She introduced him to a local assemblyman with whom she was collaborating, and Findlay quickly found himself involved in the assemblyman’s campaign. “I was always by her side—driving her, helping her however I could. Soon, I was captivated by the power of political engagement and the potential it holds for positive change.”
Yet, politics wasn’t his only calling. Findlay had always harbored a desire to join the military, with the Marines initially in his sights. “In our culture, respect for your parents’ wishes are paramount,” he says, explaining why he held off for years due to his mother’s opposition. But in 2020, with his siblings grown and able to care for themselves, he felt the time had finally come. Just before COVID struck, he enlisted. Tragically, his mother passed away during his training. “I joined the Army on February 28th, and she passed on March 3rd,” he shares, describing the intense emotional weight of that time. “My first sergeant told me, ‘This is one of those moments that will haunt you if you don’t go back and make your peace.’ So, I returned home to say goodbye and then finished my training.”
Returning from military service, Findlay was ready to reintegrate into civilian life. He sought assistance from the VA, faced the challenges many veterans do, and began working and attending school. But when election season arrived, he paused his studies to jump back into politics, initially affiliating with the Democratic Party.
Over time, however, Findlay’s views evolved. “After my experience in the Army, I saw things differently. The values I held—law and order, support for veterans, and community self-reliance—no longer aligned with the Democratic Party.” Choosing to stand by his beliefs, he joined the Conservative Party and now runs for the New York State Assembly in the 79th District, advocating for change on issues he believes are vital to his community and country.
Findlay’s platform centers around three key policies. “First and foremost, we need law and order,” he asserts. “Our communities need safer streets for our children, families, and businesses. COVID lockdowns, economic downturns, and riots have deeply affected the Bronx, driving businesses away. We need to create an environment where businesses feel secure enough to return and invest.”
The second priority close to his heart is supporting veterans. “Our veterans have held up their end of the bargain; now we need to hold up ours. Every service member should have a job lined up and their VA files in order before leaving their service to ensure a smoother transition back into civilian life.”
Findlay’s third focus is trade schools. “Trade schools equip people with skills that promote self-sufficiency. This could give Bronx residents a path to independence and financial stability, without being limited to one employer or career path,” he explains, emphasizing that trades allow people to generate income on their own terms.
This is Findlays first run for a legislative position, but he’s no stranger to the political arena. “I’ve been in politics long enough to expect the ups and downs. Still, some moments take me by surprise,” he admits. Switching parties, for example, was met with disappointment from some supporters who believed he would have a better chance as a Democrat. “But authenticity is everything to me. I can’t stand behind a party whose values no longer align with mine, even if it might give me an easier path.”
Findlay also wears a statement piece that embodies his beliefs—a “Black Lives MAGA” shirt. “To me, ‘Black Lives Make America Great’ signifies our integral role in this country. Our contributions to America’s strength and prosperity are often overlooked, but we are an essential part of its fabric.”
He’s faced significant challenges this year, particularly regarding government policies that he feels have sidelined American citizens in favor of illegal migrants. “It’s frustrating to see resources directed at illegal migrants while American citizens, especially veterans, struggle with homelessness and foreclosure,” he says. “Our veterans and citizens should be the priority.”
Having come to the United States legally, Findlay understands the immigration system firsthand. “My mother filed for me through her church. It was a long process, but eventually, I joined her here legally. I’ll never forget the anxiety of my immigration interview. It was a journey, but I’m grateful to be here legally.”
Despite living in various states over the years, including Minnesota, Maryland, and Ohio, Findlay always returns to the Bronx. “The Bronx is home. No matter where I go, it calls me back. It’s where I feel most connected, where my roots are.”
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