Edafe Okporo in a dark blue suit and red tie standing at a podium at the Museum of Women in Art in Washington D.C. He seems to be addressing a crowd.

MEET EDAFE OKPORO

Edafe Okporo is a proven leader and activist committed to advocating for migrants, affordable housing and social justice in New York City.

As the founder of the first shelter for asylum seekers in New York City, he has demonstrated his deep commitment to supporting those in crisis and creating a welcoming and inclusive community. Edafe’s memoir, "Asylum," published by Simon & Schuster, shares his personal journey and advocacy work.

Edafe received his Master's from New York University (NYU). He was awarded the David Prize in 2020 for his contributions to NYC and received the Wilmers Integrity Prize in 2024.

Activist & Community organizer

Edafe Okporo and his husband are active members of our community. They are members of the Unitarian Church. Edafe plays soccer on Sundays at Booker T. Washington W. 108th St., Columbus Ave., and Amsterdam. He also plays tennis at Riverbank State Park on W137th St. and gardens with the community at the Wicked Friendship Garden on W150th St.

Edafe Okporo stands at a podium during a rally at Foley Square, wearing a winter jacket and addressing the crowd. In front of the podium is a bold yellow sign reading 'End Shelter Eviction.'
Edafe, wearing a blue shirt, black pants, and white sneakers, is speaking with two voters on West 103rd Street at a pet adoption event—a middle-aged man, his spouse, and their child.

Living in a concrete city, green spaces are vital to our sense of well-being. I started playing soccer in 2018 on the Upper West Side at Riverside and West 103rd, transitioning during the pandemic to Booker T. Washington at West 108th and Columbus. As a result of the pandemic's impact, I took up gardening as a way to reconnect with my neighbors. As a member of a community garden, I have seen firsthand how gardening has led to lifelong friendships with neighbors, created fun activities and memorable moments with families, and united us in addressing neighborhood needs.

As your next city council member, I will continue to be an active member of the community, and prioritize green spaces wherever possible.

I believe in the justice movement, standing with people in need and raising our voices for the most oppressed members of our society. Sometimes, we need an organizer to bring people together to advocate for the community and never take for granted the rights and opportunities we have as a result of leaders who took risks for others to exist and enjoy their rights.

I grew up as an Anglican and have worked as a minster of a pentecostal congregation. I was the first in my nuclear family to have a college degree. I have enjoyed teaching about faith in my life and working with different religious leaders. I have travelled across the country teaching about migration and uniting our shared values in making the world a better place.