Mathieu Eugene facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Mathieu Eugene
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| Member of the New York City Council from the 40th district |
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| In office April 25, 2007 – December 31, 2021 |
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| Preceded by | Yvette Clarke |
| Succeeded by | Rita Joseph |
| Personal details | |
| Born | April 26, 1953 Cap-Haïtien, Haiti |
| Political party | Democratic |
| Website | Official website: http://council.nyc.gov/d40/html/members/home.shtml |
Mathieu Eugene, born on April 26, 1953, is a politician from the United States with Haitian roots. He is a member of the Democratic Party. He served as a New York City Council member for the 40th district. He made history as the first person born in Haiti to become a city council member in New York.
His district covered parts of Brooklyn, including Crown Heights, East Flatbush, Flatbush, Kensington, Midwood, Prospect Park, and Prospect Lefferts Gardens.
Life and Career
Early Life and Community Work
Mathieu Eugene was born in Cap-Haïtien, Haiti. He is a Haitian-American. Before becoming a politician, he studied medicine in different countries like Belgium, the Dominican Republic, and Mexico. He earned his medical degree from Universidad del Noreste in Mexico. However, he does not work as a doctor in the U.S.
Instead of practicing medicine, Mr. Eugene became a community organizer. He worked to help people in his community. He also runs a special program for young people in Brooklyn, helping them learn and grow.
Becoming a City Council Member
In 2006, the City Council member for his district, Yvette Clarke, left her position. This happened because she was elected to the United States Congress. A special election was held to choose someone new. Mathieu Eugene won this election.
This made him the first person born in Haiti to be elected to public office in New York State. He was re-elected to the City Council in 2009, 2013, and 2017.
Personal Life
Mathieu Eugene is a practicing Catholic. He also holds a black belt in the martial art of Taekwondo.
