If there is one idea that has defined our country’s unique character, it is the American Dream.

What is the American Dream and why is it so important? The writer Adam Barone defines it as “the belief that anyone, regardless of where they were born or what class they were born into, can attain their own version of success in which upward mobility is possible for everyone. It can be achieved through sacrifice, risk taking and hard work rather than by chance.”

This definition applies both to Americans born here or to millions of immigrants, who come 
to our country seeking to escape oppression and poverty, with the goal of realizing the American Dream for themselves and their families. I believe each of us knows someone whose life and achievements truly exemplify the American Dream. I know I do. His name is Manny Nneji, and he currently serves as Ulster County’s Chief Assistant District Attorney and he is also the Democratic candidate for Ulster County District Attorney. 
Manny’s story begins in Nigeria, where he was born into a large family of very modest means. After graduating high school he immigrated to America, working his way through SUNY New Paltz as a dishwasher and dormitory cleaner to pay school fees. Then, for two years he worked at McDonald’s on Main Street in New Paltz to save for tuition at the University of Buffalo Law School. After graduating, he returned to Ulster County to work for Mid-Hudson Legal Services, assisting indigent citizens with civil matters including evictions. In the fall of 1990, following a stint as a law intern with the Ulster County DA’s Office, he was offered a job as a prosecutor. In the following decades he distinguished himself as one of the toughest and hardest working Assistant DA’s in the office. In recognition of his decades of achievement, in 2021 Manny was appointed Chief Assistant DA. The full story of his remarkable life can be found at www.mannyforda.com.

In less than two months voters will decide on who will serve as Ulster County’s next District Attorney. If the American Dream means anything, it means choosing an individual who has truly achieved it. Manny Nneji is that individual and he has earned our trust and our vote.