Diversity in Middlesex County Local Government Positions
Some time ago, I reached out to Chanelle Scott McCullum to learn more about the functions of the Middlesex County local government. She's one of the first African American county commissioners in Middlesex County, and she's truly beyond inspiring. After igniting a career in pharmacy, Commissioner McCullum was elected as Piscataway Township President twice and founded the area's first Democratic organization for African Americans.
She's also an avid advocate, actively initiating Walk for Your Health 5K and serving Piscataway senior living. Through my internship with the Chamber of Commerce, I was reacquainted with Ms. McCullum and reminded of my wonderful interview with her years ago. Minority representation in the board of County Commissioners does not only affect Africans Americans--it is an essential step toward Asian representation in local government, as well.
Read below to see my interview with Chanelle Scott McCullum, and her insights on being from a minority race in an elected local government position:
What does a day of being a local government official look like for you?
"While I am one County Commissioner, I serve with six other commissioners of the Middlesex County Board. My colleagues and I are committed to sound management of the County, focusing on maintaining our strong fiscal position and improving the quality of life for our residents. Consistent with our Board’s vision, as Chair of our Innovation Education and Opportunity Committee, I’ve worked hard to expand educational opportunities for our residents.
We provide access to the best possible education for our residents from the
Middlesex County Magnet Schools to Middlesex College and Rutgers University. I’ve seen first-hand the transformative power of education for our young people and support those institutions as they adapt to the needs of today’s students."
Why do you think it’s important to have female representation in politics?
"Throughout my career in public service, I have been proud to champion health and wellness issues for our entire community, and especially women. Having female representation is powerful and creates a voice for all women on a variety of issues. As Council President in Piscataway, I created an annual health and fitness walk, in partnership with GirlTrek, an organization of over 1 million Black women dedicated to walking for health. In addition, my colleagues at the Board and I have launched a Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging initiative to assess, identify and build and facilitate our Board’s commitment to incorporating DEIB principles in all that we do. This ensures that the County is doing everything possible to
develop and implement policies which support everyone in our communities."
It’s common for girls in minority groups to feel discouraged to assert themselves. How do you think one can use their different background as a positive tool while being a leader?
"Our voices are unique and shed light to our culture. We need a strong voice to advocate for minority groups as a platform to uplift, alter and support all diverse minorities in our community. We have a responsibility to be open and pave the path for our future children. Everyone is different, but, you are the best at being you, don’t dim your light!"
What is the best way for young girls to build their network and stand out in politics?
"Throughout my career, I have found that the best way to build a network is to support one another. I’ve been fortunate to have mentors and friends with whom I’ve worked closely for the benefit of our community. For example, I’ve learned so much about being a public servant from my mother, Mildred S. Scott. My Mom is the first female Sheriff for the County of Middlesex and the first African American Sheriff in the State of New Jersey. I’ve been proud to learn from her and look to provide the same to young people who I encounter – I believe it’s imperative that we all find ways to lift each other up."
The UN recognizes youth entrepreneurship as a primary mechanism to achieve sustainable development goals. What is your advice for young girls who aspire to turn their passion into an initiative?
"I think that our youth have a powerful ability to change our community for the better. It starts with identifying an issue or initiative you’re passionate about – in my case, it was health and wellness. Then, you find peers, groups, or partners who are passionate about the same thing; put your heads together, and make something happen. Progress builds upon itself exponentially, and by accomplishing an initial goal, even if it seems at first glance to be small or inconsequential, we can each begin to change the world!"
In conclusion, Commissioner McCullum underlined the value of teamwork and mentoring when establishing a career in public service. She urged young girls, particularly those from underrepresented groups, to build networks by uplifting others and to use their distinct voices as assets rather than obstacles. She gave straightforward advice: take action, surround yourself with like-minded people, and begin with passion—even tiny steps have a big impact.
Her message is essential for Asian American youth: representation in local government must be inclusive of all communities, and her words provide urgency to embrace cultural identity as a source of leadership rather than a constraint.
