Assembly Member Chantel Jackson, LMSW, stands at the forefront of progressive change, representing District 79 with unwavering dedication and a tireless commitment to her constituents. Serving the neighborhoods of Concourse Village, Melrose, Morrisania, Claremont, Belmont, and East Tremont, she has become a beacon of hope and empowerment for the diverse communities she serves.

Born in Harlem and raised in a close-knit family of six siblings, Chantel Jackson’s path to public service was shaped by deep community roots and strong family values. Her mother, an immigrant from Belize, taught her resilience and perseverance, while her father, a successful entrepreneur and CEO, modeled the power of economic independence and service. Inspired by their example, Chantel has committed her career to advancing social justice and economic empowerment.

After earning a bachelor’s degree in psychology from City College and a master’s from Adelphi University, she spent nine years helping low-income, first-generation students navigate college admissions and financial aid. She later served as a social worker in NYC public high schools for four years, supporting students' mental and physical well-being.

Now in her second term, Chantel has been a strong voice on issues that matter most to her constituents. She has championed comprehensive gun safety legislation including the passage of a bill requiring a license to purchase or possess a semiautomatic rifle, secured funding for mental health services and small business support programs, and led the development of local initiatives focused on wellness, entrepreneurship, and community development.Her work is grounded in the belief that systemic change begins at the community level.

Since 2021, Chantel has distributed more than $2,018,000 in funding to local organizations and community partners. These funds have supported a wide range of initiatives across key focus areas such as the arts, education, social justice, community development, youth empowerment, and health equity. Her strategic investments have helped drive meaningful impact and foster sustainable growth within historically underserved communities.

A leader with a deep commitment to equity and empowerment, Chantel currently serves as Chair of both the New York State Legislative Women’s Caucus and the New York State Legislative Black Task Force—positions that reflect her ongoing efforts to elevate underrepresented voices and promote inclusive policy solutions. In addition, Chantel sits on the Committees of Cities, Education, Housing, Mental Health, Small Business, and Subcommittee on Micro Business.

Continuing her fifth year in office, Chantel believes that true leadership means being present, listening intently, and showing up for the people she serves. Whether attending neighborhood events, visiting local businesses and schools, or sitting down with constituents to hear their concerns, she remains deeply hands-on and engaged in the community. She sees herself not just as a representative, but as a catalyst for lasting change.

Her unwavering dedication to her role is rooted in her lived experience—as a licensed social worker, college professor, published author, and, most proudly, a devoted mother to her daughter, Skye, and son, TJ. These roles shape her mission and fuel her tireless pursuit of health, wellness, education, and generational wealth for families across the Bronx and beyond.