Mercedes Vazquez

Monroe County Legislator for the 22nd Legislative District and Assistant Minority Leader

Assistant Minority Leader Mercedes Vazquez Simmons proudly serves the 22nd Legislative District in the Northeast Quadrant of Rochester, her birthplace. Her district encompasses historic areas such as the Public Market Neighborhood, Upper Falls, MarketView Heights, La Avenida, Grove Place, the Neighborhood of Play, and the East End. These areas boast assets like El Camino Trail, Eastman School of Music, Genesee Brewery, Rochester Public Market, and the Strong Museum.

Deeply aware of her district's challenges, Mercedes focuses on career and economic development, and addressing housing disparities. She serves on the Ways and Means Committee and the Recreation and Education Committee, and is also a member of the Fire Advisory Board and the Consortium for Safe Communities Committee.

Her years of service include roles as Vice-President of Friends of St. Michael’s, Treasurer of the Afro-Latino Dance Group, President of The New York Immigration Coalition, Vice-President of the North Clinton Ave Business Association, Treasurer of Center City Boxing Club, and Co-Founder of Latino Voter Protection, Inc. and Los Flamboyanes Book/Literacy Club. She has also been the Secretary of the Fien Street Block Club, a member of the North Clinton Ave Block Club, a Board Member of Hope Dealers and the National Society of Hispanic MBAs, and a volunteer outreach coordinator for the Hispanic Community Center for Seniors.

Previously, she was the President of the School of the Arts PTSA. Professionally, Mercedes teaches at Franklin High School RCSD, is a licensed Combat Sports Promoter, and a Boxing Hall of Famer. Her fighters have been showcased on international networks. She holds an associate degree from Monroe Community College, a Bachelor's and an MBA from Medaille College, and a Business Certification from the Simon School.

Family is central to Mercedes. She is the daughter of lifelong civil and community rights activist Belen Colon and the mother of Taylor Hezekiah Simmons, who serves in the United States Army.