Mathieu Eugene facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Mathieu Eugene
Member of the New York City Council from the 40th district
In office April 25, 2007 – December 31, 2021
Preceded by	Yvette Clarke
Succeeded by	Rita Joseph
Personal details
Born	(1953-04-26) April 26, 1953 (age 72) Cap-Haïtien, Haiti
Political party	Democratic
Website	Official website: http://council.nyc.gov/d40/html/members/home.shtml

Mathieu Eugene (born April 26, 1953) is a Haitian-American politician. He is a member of the Democratic Party. He served as a New York City Council member for the 40th district. He was the first person born in Haiti to become a city council member in New York.

His district covered parts of Crown Heights, East Flatbush, Flatbush, Kensington, Midwood, Prospect Park, and Prospect Lefferts Gardens in Brooklyn.

Early Life and Background

Mathieu Eugene was born in Cap-Haïtien, Haiti, in April 1953. He later became a Haitian-American citizen.

Before becoming a politician, he studied medicine in different countries. He also worked as a community organizer. This means he helped bring people together to solve problems in their neighborhoods.

Serving in the New York City Council

Becoming a Council Member

In 2006, the previous council member, Yvette Clarke, left her position. She had been elected to the United States Congress. A special election was held to choose someone new for the City Council. 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 started his term on April 25, 2007.

Re-election and Role

Mathieu Eugene was re-elected to the City Council several times. He won elections in 2009, 2013, and 2017. He served as a council member until December 31, 2021.

As a city council member, he helped make laws and decisions for New York City. He worked on issues important to the people in his district.

Personal Life

Mathieu Eugene is a practicing Catholic. He is also skilled in martial arts. He holds a black belt in Taekwondo.