Komi L.T. Agoda-Koussema

[{"question": "Ballotpedia survey responses", "answer_html": "<p>See also: <a href=\"/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\">Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection</a></p>\n<div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-xs-10 col-md-6 col-xs-offset-1 col-md-offset-3\"><p><a href=\"https://ballotpedia.org/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\"><img align=\"middle\" alt=\"Candidate Connection\" src=\"https://cdn.ballotpedia.org/images/8/88/Candidate_Connection_Logo.png\" width=\"90%\"/></a></p></div></div>\n<p>Komi Agoda-Koussema completed <a href=\"/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\">Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection</a> survey in 2022. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Agoda-Koussema's responses.</p>\n<p><span class=\"expand-all\">Expand all</span> | <span class=\"collapse-all\">Collapse all</span></p>\n<div aria-multiselectable=\"true\" class=\"panel-group\" id=\"accordion\" role=\"tablist\"><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-bio-105983-2022-07-14\" id=\"heading-bio-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-bio-105983-2022-07-14\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-bio-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWho are you? Tell us about yourself.\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading-bio-105983-2022-07-14\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-bio-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI am a proud American and immigrant running for NY Congressional District 11. I am originally from Togo and Ghana where I have families in both countries. I immigrated to the United States in 1985. After completing my college education at the University of Lomé, Togo, I went to teach secondary school in Gabon, in Central Africa, between 1986 and 1988. This was the beginning of my career as an educator. In 1988, I returned to the United States to continue work for the Staten Island YMCA as a day camp counselor in recreation and cultural affairs and later became an educator in the New York City Department of Education. I retired on February 28, 2022 after 33 years of service. I’m a lifelong New Yorker, having lived my entire adult life on the North Shore in Graniteville. I am married to my wife Anio, with whom we have raised six daughters and one son who is currently attending Binghamton University in upstate New York. All my children have been products of the public schools' system in New York City. Among my children are three adopted special needs girls whom we fostered and adopted, the youngest of whom is 23.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-105983-2022-07-14\" id=\"heading-key-message-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-key-message-105983-2022-07-14\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tPlease list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading-key-message-105983-2022-07-14\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-key-message-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\"><ul><li>It's about the future of our CHILDREN, OUR SENIORS, AND OUR FAMILIES.</li><li>It's about the QUALITY OF LIFE in our community and how we build that community together in UNITY and PEACE.</li><li>And most importantly it's about who has the fitness and qualities to lead, and who best can represent you and your interest in the United States Congress</li></ul></span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-105983-2022-07-14\" id=\"heading1-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse1-105983-2022-07-14\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading1-105983-2022-07-14\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse1-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\t1. Education: As a lifelong educator, I believe we need to invest in our children by focusing on vocational training and education to develop their talents and build and develop our economy<br/><br/>\n<p>2. Immigration: We need to develop sensible establish and develop a pathway to citizenship for undocumented residents who have lived in this country for the past several decades. This is a win-win situation for everyone: The government, the people, and the economy.<br/><br/>\n</p>\n3. Small businesses: After the pandemic, it's clear that we need to support small businesses by providing grants to keep these businesses afloat because they are the mainstay of the economy. This will help them thrive in order to keep inflation under control and maintain our economy. \t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-105983-2022-07-14\" id=\"heading2-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse2-105983-2022-07-14\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWho do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading2-105983-2022-07-14\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse2-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tFrederick Douglass has always been a role model of mine due to his courage and exceptional leadership in advocating and in writing for a number of reform issues, including women's rights, temperance, peace, land reform, free public education, and the repeal of the death penalty.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-105983-2022-07-14\" id=\"heading3-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse3-105983-2022-07-14\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tIs there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading3-105983-2022-07-14\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse3-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tPlato's belief that conflicting interests of different parts of society can be harmonized. The best, rational and righteous, political order, which he proposes, leads to a harmonious unity of society and allows each of its parts to flourish, but not at the expense of others.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse4-105983-2022-07-14\" id=\"heading4-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse4-105983-2022-07-14\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse4-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading4-105983-2022-07-14\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse4-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tTransparency, honesty, compassion, diligence, discipline, respect, and fairness\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse5-105983-2022-07-14\" id=\"heading5-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse5-105983-2022-07-14\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse5-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading5-105983-2022-07-14\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse5-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\t1. Teaching and leadership skills<br/><br/>\n<p>2. Organized and honest<br/><br/>\r\n3. Compassionate and fair<br/><br/>\n</p>\n4. Disciplined and willing to help.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse6-105983-2022-07-14\" id=\"heading6-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse6-105983-2022-07-14\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse6-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading6-105983-2022-07-14\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse6-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tRepresenting the people by helping constituents solve everyday problems. \t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse7-105983-2022-07-14\" id=\"heading7-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse7-105983-2022-07-14\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse7-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat legacy would you like to leave?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading7-105983-2022-07-14\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse7-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tMaking civic education accessible across the country, providing more adequate services to mental health, championing equity for marginalized groups, and immigration reform because we are a nation of immigrants and we champion the rights and dignity for all.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse8-105983-2022-07-14\" id=\"heading8-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse8-105983-2022-07-14\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse8-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading8-105983-2022-07-14\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse8-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tOn November 9, 1989, the Communist Party of East Berlin's spokesman proclaimed a change in his city's relations with the West as the Cold War started to soften throughout Eastern Europe. He said that from that day's midnight onward, GDR nationals may freely enter and exit the nation. I was 27 years old and it was my first year as a rookie teacher in New York City.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse9-105983-2022-07-14\" id=\"heading9-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse9-105983-2022-07-14\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse9-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat was your very first job? How long did you have it?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading9-105983-2022-07-14\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse9-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI taught English from sixieme to troisieme. Also taught French in sixieme and cinquieme as an ESL Teacher (English as a Second Language Teacher) at Collège Privé Notre Dame de la Salette in Koula-Moutou, Moyen-Ogooue, Gabon from September 1986 - June 1998. As official teacher of the troisieme class, monitored students’ homework in all subject areas, provided guidance and organized extra-curricula activities. Introduced a successful after school program (English club) school wide. Activities included singing, poetry appreciation, reading and writing compositions in English. Was elected chair of English Department in the school district for the 1987-1988 school year. Was school’s assistant soccer coach from 1986-1988.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse10-105983-2022-07-14\" id=\"heading10-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse10-105983-2022-07-14\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse10-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat is your favorite book? Why?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading10-105983-2022-07-14\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse10-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tInvisible Man by Ralph Ellison\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse11-105983-2022-07-14\" id=\"heading11-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse11-105983-2022-07-14\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse11-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tIf you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading11-105983-2022-07-14\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse11-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tCaptain Spock from Star Trek\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse12-105983-2022-07-14\" id=\"heading12-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse12-105983-2022-07-14\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse12-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat was the last song that got stuck in your head?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading12-105983-2022-07-14\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse12-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tShow Me Love by Robin S.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse13-105983-2022-07-14\" id=\"heading13-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse13-105983-2022-07-14\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse13-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat is something that has been a struggle in your life?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading13-105983-2022-07-14\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse13-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tMy father was a military sergeant and drill instructor who was never home and was always assigned posts abroad. Growing up without him was definitely a huge struggle for me and my siblings despite having what we needed to make ends meet so my journey to the US, not having parents with me made it a little less harder because I always had to stand on my own., but I lacked one of the most important things of all: A father's love, presence, and guidance. It wasn't until later in life that I realized how much I needed him but it was too late because he had passed. This was especially when I started to raise my only son and this is the influence of parenting on our children\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse14-105983-2022-07-14\" id=\"heading14-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse14-105983-2022-07-14\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse14-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat qualities does the U.S. House of Representatives possess that makes it unique as an institution?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading14-105983-2022-07-14\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse14-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tThe power of the press because they approve the budget and approve all spending with the federal government.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse15-105983-2022-07-14\" id=\"heading15-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse15-105983-2022-07-14\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse15-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tDo you believe that it's beneficial for representatives to have previous experience in government or politics?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading15-105983-2022-07-14\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse15-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tThis is a double-edged sword. Experience is definitely helpful but it is not a prerequisite.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse16-105983-2022-07-14\" id=\"heading16-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse16-105983-2022-07-14\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse16-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat do you perceive to be the United States' greatest challenges as a nation over the next decade?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading16-105983-2022-07-14\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse16-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\t1. Domestic terrorism: <br/><br/>\n<p>2. Gun control<br/><br/>\n</p>\n3. Rivalry with China\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse17-105983-2022-07-14\" id=\"heading17-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse17-105983-2022-07-14\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse17-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tIf you are not a current representative, are there certain committees that you would want to be a part of?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading17-105983-2022-07-14\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse17-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\t1. Education and labor<br/><br/>\n<p>2. Small business<br/><br/>\r\n3. Foreign affairs<br/><br/>\n</p>\n4. Immigration\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse18-105983-2022-07-14\" id=\"heading18-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse18-105983-2022-07-14\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse18-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tDo you believe that two years is the right term length for representatives?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading18-105983-2022-07-14\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse18-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tNo, I think a representative should serve a 4 year term because 2 years demands more campaigning than representing the people and doing the necessary work for their benefit. \t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse19-105983-2022-07-14\" id=\"heading19-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse19-105983-2022-07-14\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse19-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat are your thoughts on term limits?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading19-105983-2022-07-14\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse19-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI support term limits in both the House and Senate\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse20-105983-2022-07-14\" id=\"heading20-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse20-105983-2022-07-14\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse20-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tIs there a particular representative, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading20-105983-2022-07-14\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse20-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tBenne G. Thompson from Mississippi is a great role model and I can benefit from his wisdom.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse21-105983-2022-07-14\" id=\"heading21-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse21-105983-2022-07-14\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse21-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tBoth sitting representatives and candidates for office hear many personal stories from the residents of their district. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching, memorable, or impactful?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading21-105983-2022-07-14\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse21-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tOne of senior citizens in the housing developments shared a story about being unable to stay in her apartment that she had occupied for over twenty years before the death of her husband. She needs help to be able to move into a one bedroom apartment in the same development but is unable to do so. So why should the process be so complicated for someone who has lived in the place for so long but now all of a sudden has to leave the place because she cannot get a one bedroom and therefore has to pack and leave? \t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse22-105983-2022-07-14\" id=\"heading22-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse22-105983-2022-07-14\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse22-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tTell us your favorite joke.\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading22-105983-2022-07-14\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse22-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tWhat did the fish say when he swam into a wall?<br/>\n<p>Dam.<br/><br/><br/>\n</p>\nI like puns.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse23-105983-2022-07-14\" id=\"heading23-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse23-105983-2022-07-14\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse23-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tDo you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading23-105983-2022-07-14\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse23-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tAbsolutely! We have to disagree to agree and compromise is the only way to move the needle forward for the interests of public policy\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse24-105983-2022-07-14\" id=\"heading24-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse24-105983-2022-07-14\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse24-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tThe Constitution says that all bills for raising revenue must originate in the House. What role would this power play in your priorities if elected?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading24-105983-2022-07-14\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse24-105983-2022-07-14\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tIt would provide the needs of the citizens in the country first before looking to help our allies abroad.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div></div>\n<div class=\"small\" data-nosnippet=\"\"><p><i><b>Note:</b> Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.</i></p></div>\n<div id=\"div-gpt-ad-1548351761485-0\"><script>googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display(\"div-gpt-ad-1548351761485-0\"); });</script></div>", "answer_text": "See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection\n\nKomi Agoda-Koussema completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2022. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Agoda-Koussema's responses.\nExpand all | Collapse all\nWho are you? Tell us about yourself. I am a proud American and immigrant running for NY Congressional District 11. I am originally from Togo and Ghana where I have families in both countries. I immigrated to the United States in 1985. After completing my college education at the University of Lomé, Togo, I went to teach secondary school in Gabon, in Central Africa, between 1986 and 1988. This was the beginning of my career as an educator. In 1988, I returned to the United States to continue work for the Staten Island YMCA as a day camp counselor in recreation and cultural affairs and later became an educator in the New York City Department of Education. I retired on February 28, 2022 after 33 years of service. I’m a lifelong New Yorker, having lived my entire adult life on the North Shore in Graniteville. I am married to my wife Anio, with whom we have raised six daughters and one son who is currently attending Binghamton University in upstate New York. All my children have been products of the public schools' system in New York City. Among my children are three adopted special needs girls whom we fostered and adopted, the youngest of whom is 23. Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office? It's about the future of our CHILDREN, OUR SENIORS, AND OUR FAMILIES. It's about the QUALITY OF LIFE in our community and how we build that community together in UNITY and PEACE. And most importantly it's about who has the fitness and qualities to lead, and who best can represent you and your interest in the United States Congress What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about? 1. Education: As a lifelong educator, I believe we need to invest in our children by focusing on vocational training and education to develop their talents and build and develop our economy 2. Immigration: We need to develop sensible establish and develop a pathway to citizenship for undocumented residents who have lived in this country for the past several decades. This is a win-win situation for everyone: The government, the people, and the economy. 3. Small businesses: After the pandemic, it's clear that we need to support small businesses by providing grants to keep these businesses afloat because they are the mainstay of the economy. This will help them thrive in order to keep inflation under control and maintain our economy. Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why? Frederick Douglass has always been a role model of mine due to his courage and exceptional leadership in advocating and in writing for a number of reform issues, including women's rights, temperance, peace, land reform, free public education, and the repeal of the death penalty. Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy? Plato's belief that conflicting interests of different parts of society can be harmonized. The best, rational and righteous, political order, which he proposes, leads to a harmonious unity of society and allows each of its parts to flourish, but not at the expense of others. What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official? Transparency, honesty, compassion, diligence, discipline, respect, and fairness What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder? 1. Teaching and leadership skills 2. Organized and honest 3. Compassionate and fair 4. Disciplined and willing to help. What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office? Representing the people by helping constituents solve everyday problems. What legacy would you like to leave? Making civic education accessible across the country, providing more adequate services to mental health, championing equity for marginalized groups, and immigration reform because we are a nation of immigrants and we champion the rights and dignity for all. What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time? On November 9, 1989, the Communist Party of East Berlin's spokesman proclaimed a change in his city's relations with the West as the Cold War started to soften throughout Eastern Europe. He said that from that day's midnight onward, GDR nationals may freely enter and exit the nation. I was 27 years old and it was my first year as a rookie teacher in New York City. What was your very first job? How long did you have it? I taught English from sixieme to troisieme. Also taught French in sixieme and cinquieme as an ESL Teacher (English as a Second Language Teacher) at Collège Privé Notre Dame de la Salette in Koula-Moutou, Moyen-Ogooue, Gabon from September 1986 - June 1998. As official teacher of the troisieme class, monitored students’ homework in all subject areas, provided guidance and organized extra-curricula activities. Introduced a successful after school program (English club) school wide. Activities included singing, poetry appreciation, reading and writing compositions in English. Was elected chair of English Department in the school district for the 1987-1988 school year. Was school’s assistant soccer coach from 1986-1988. What is your favorite book? Why? Invisible Man by Ralph Ellison If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be? Captain Spock from Star Trek What was the last song that got stuck in your head? Show Me Love by Robin S. What is something that has been a struggle in your life? My father was a military sergeant and drill instructor who was never home and was always assigned posts abroad. Growing up without him was definitely a huge struggle for me and my siblings despite having what we needed to make ends meet so my journey to the US, not having parents with me made it a little less harder because I always had to stand on my own., but I lacked one of the most important things of all: A father's love, presence, and guidance. It wasn't until later in life that I realized how much I needed him but it was too late because he had passed. This was especially when I started to raise my only son and this is the influence of parenting on our children What qualities does the U.S. House of Representatives possess that makes it unique as an institution? The power of the press because they approve the budget and approve all spending with the federal government. Do you believe that it's beneficial for representatives to have previous experience in government or politics? This is a double-edged sword. Experience is definitely helpful but it is not a prerequisite. What do you perceive to be the United States' greatest challenges as a nation over the next decade? 1. Domestic terrorism: 2. Gun control 3. Rivalry with China If you are not a current representative, are there certain committees that you would want to be a part of? 1. Education and labor 2. Small business 3. Foreign affairs 4. Immigration Do you believe that two years is the right term length for representatives? No, I think a representative should serve a 4 year term because 2 years demands more campaigning than representing the people and doing the necessary work for their benefit. What are your thoughts on term limits? I support term limits in both the House and Senate Is there a particular representative, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after? Benne G. Thompson from Mississippi is a great role model and I can benefit from his wisdom. Both sitting representatives and candidates for office hear many personal stories from the residents of their district. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching, memorable, or impactful? One of senior citizens in the housing developments shared a story about being unable to stay in her apartment that she had occupied for over twenty years before the death of her husband. She needs help to be able to move into a one bedroom apartment in the same development but is unable to do so. So why should the process be so complicated for someone who has lived in the place for so long but now all of a sudden has to leave the place because she cannot get a one bedroom and therefore has to pack and leave? Tell us your favorite joke. What did the fish say when he swam into a wall? Dam. I like puns. Do you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking? Absolutely! We have to disagree to agree and compromise is the only way to move the needle forward for the interests of public policy The Constitution says that all bills for raising revenue must originate in the House. What role would this power play in your priorities if elected? It would provide the needs of the citizens in the country first before looking to help our allies abroad.\nNote: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it."}]