Get to Know Phoenix District 7 Councilwoman Yassamin Ansari

Yassamin Ansari was recently inaugurated as Councilwoman for Phoenix’s District 7, which encompassing parts of Estrella, Maryvale, Laveen, South Phoenix and Downtown Phoenix.

We got to do a quick Q&A with her at a recent DTPHX Dollar Drop. Learn about her priorities for DTPHX, favorite things to do around the city, and how to stay in touch with District 7 happenings.

How can people support Downtown Phoenix businesses right now?

I’m really excited about these [DTPHX Dollars], you can come pick up these $5 vouchers and use them at local businesses nearby to try something new. In general, though, I think we live in such an exciting time you can use social media, do research online, talk to your friends, and there are so many new places popping up. You can support businesses by writing them great reviews or posting about it on Instagram, and it really goes a long way. That’s honestly how I find out about my favorite spots in the city.

What are some of your priorities for Downtown Phoenix?

I’m just really excited that Phoenix is blowing up in such an exciting way. For me personally, I  want to make sure we maintain an affordable downtown. A place where young entrepreneurs, firefighters, electricians, teachers, anyone can afford to live. I also really care about sustainability, I want to make sure that we have a downtown where people can bike to work and walk to work and it’s safe for them to do so. And finally, making sure that we’re not only supporting our existing businesses but also working to bring in better jobs, so that we can attract new talent, retain our talent, and have a downtown where people can really work, live and play.

What are some of the businesses that you like to support around here?

There’s a lot. My new favorite spot, I will say, is The Pemberton. It’s so cool outside with all of these vintage vans and pop-up restaurants and bars. I’m a big coffee drinker, so some of my favorite coffee shops are Hidden Track Cafe, near City Hall. And near my apartment, there’s Lola and Fair Trade Cafe. It’s also really cool to see all of the new restaurants and bars opening up like Lucky’s.

What public art in Downtown Phoenix has inspired you lately?

I was really inspired by the Black History Month mural project that was taking place in Downtown Phoenix. My favorite one featured John Lewis, Barack Obama, Kamala Harris – it was really cool to see Kamala being the first female Vice President and a woman of such a diverse background. And for someone like me that’s young and just got involved in public service, that was really cool to see.

How can people stay in touch?

You can follow us @district7phx on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. Sign up to receive our newsletter: https://www.phoenix.gov/district7