National Night Out—held annually on the first Tuesday of August and celebrated this year on the 5th—is a nationwide event designed to foster trust, build relationships, and bridge the gap between law enforcement and the communities they serve. Across New York City, local precincts marked the evening with family-friendly activities such as face painting, balloon houses, games, music, and open conversations that brought together residents, community organizations, political leaders, and—at the heart of it all—police officers.
In recent years, however, tensions between law enforcement and communities have grown—especially in New York City—due to budget cuts, staffing shortages, legal challenges, and a widening perception gap between official crime reports and what community members say they experience on the ground.
This year, Grace Marrero, a Conservative Party leader and Republican-Conservative endorsed candidate for Bronx Borough President, attended National Night Out at multiple precincts. Marrero also serves as Recording Secretary for the Bronx Conservative Party and District Leader for the 80th Assembly District.
According to Marrero, her experience at the 49th Precinct’s event was marred by what she describes as political bias and targeted interference.
“I had a table at the 49th Precinct National Night Out and placed my campaign cards on it,” Marrero said. “A certain member of the council came over and told me I couldn’t have my materials there. I removed my cards and began walking around, talking to people and handing them out directly. Shortly after, an officer approached me, saying there had been complaints about my campaign cards. I knew exactly where those complaints were coming from.”
Marrero says she stayed a little longer before moving on to three other precincts for their events—where she was able to hand out campaign materials without incident.
“The only precinct that discriminated against me was my own,” Marrero stated. “This was harassment, discrimination, and election interference. At a public event like this, I should have been allowed to speak to my neighbors without being targeted.”
She also noted that another candidate, Irene Estrada, was present at the 49th Precinct event with her own campaign materials and was not stopped.
Marrero says she will be filing a complaint with One Police Plaza and emphasizes that this fight is bigger than her candidacy.
Following her remarks, Marrero made it clear through her actions and campaign messaging that she views this as part of a broader pattern of political obstruction. She contends that such incidents highlight the challenges faced by conservatives seeking to represent their communities in New York City politics. According to her campaign, the incident has only strengthened her determination to run for office and to advocate for all residents—regardless of political affiliation, socioeconomic status, race, creed, or religion—whom she believes have been marginalized or silenced in the political process.
“As a community leader and advocate, I have fought for decades against these types of tactics.”
When contacted for clarification on table setup and display regulations, 49th Precinct Community Council President Hazel Miura was left a message. If Miura or any council member responds, this story will be updated.
For more information about Grace Marrero, visit the Bronx Conservative Party website: https://thebronxconservativeparty.org.
Be First to Comment