Daisy Paez

Daisy Paez is a thoughtful, charismatic, and devoted leader, widely known for her unyielding dedication to the Lower East Side, where she grew up and has resided for more than 60 years.

For decades, Ms. Paez served at the Educational Alliance, in many roles. She worked with older adults to promote wellness, enjoyment of the arts, community engagement, and better transportation services. She is also known for bringing successful youth development programs to the community, which will continue to provide young people with welcoming spaces and positive experiences for years to come.

Recognizing that safe and affordable housing is essential for the well-being of all New Yorkers, Ms. Paez is a stalwart supporter of tenants’ rights. As President of the Grand Street Guild Residents Association from 2014 through 2017, she established a community center and successfully pushed Grand Street Guild’s management to reaffirm its commitment to long-term affordability. She is still actively involved in ensuring that the Guild’s 1,500 residents have a voice in shaping the future of their community.

Ms. Paez was first elected in 2017 as the Democratic District Leader for Assembly District 65, Part B. She brings her tremendous work ethic to the task of ensuring that Lower East Siders are engaged in political and governmental decisions that affect their lives and the trajectory of New York. She is also a member of the 7th Precinct Community Council, and a graduate of the NYPD’s Citizens Police Academy and the FBI Citizens Academy.

Recently, like thousands of other New Yorkers, Ms. Paez battled COVID-19. The outpouring of concern, love, and support from family, friends, community leaders, and public officials while she spent weeks in the hospital in very grave condition was a testament to her centrality in her community. So many were overcome with joy and gratitude when they learned of her recovery, and heard her remarkable story, expressed with her characteristic positive attitude and faith.

In all her roles, Ms. Paez cares deeply, listens attentively, understands intuitively, serves diligently, and advocates forcefully. Her passion and commitment to her community are an example for us all.