Tag: Ras J. Baraka

Ras Baraka became mayor of Newark four years ago, and here's what has happened since. In each of the last three school board elections, the two sides have joined hands to support a unity slate. Nancy Cantor, the popular chancellor of Rutgers-Newark, has worked with Baraka to develop innovative policies on crime, affordable housing, and jobs for locals. "We work with him a lot," Cantor says. Ok, it's time for the tradition caveat about good news in Newark. But the trends are all good, and that's the only fair test for a mayor. "America does not have the problems it has because of people of color. Newark should control its schools. He has turned into one of the state's most effective politicians. Baraka?