During a Brooklyn Community Board 9 "CB9" General Board meeting on October 20, 2026, Suki Cheong, a member of the board and the Chair of the CB9's Land Use Committee, referred to Black residents as "Chaos Monkeys" during the Public Comment Period. Such language is racist, insensitive, and wholly unacceptable from someone in a public position. It has caused deep pain and outrage in our community, emphasizing the need for those in power to represent, respect, and listen to all voices fairly and equally.

Suki Cheong Racist Statement

Just a few weeks earlier Suki Cheong was caught on tape, stating that she wanted to ensure anyone coming onto CB9's Landuse Committee would vote for a "Community Plan" to disempower committee members who were from Crown Heights, which is a predominately Black community.   As a result at least 15 people showed up at CB9's general board meeting on September 29, 2026,  demanding an immediate investigation into Suki Cheong's behavior.  In response Suki Cheong chose to call these residents "Chaos Monkeys". 

These Racially charged statements and language like these have no place in our community, diversity should be celebrated, not ridiculed or demeaned. Brooklyn is a mosaic of cultures and races, and those entrusted with leadership roles on our community boards should embody acceptance and understanding, being the face of progressive and inclusive governance.

Furthermore, Ms. Cheong's remarks undermine the trust and respect that should exist between the board, residents and her committee members. Such statements can have lasting repercussions, disenfranchising the very individuals she is supposed to serve. The term "chaos monkeys" echoes harmful stereotypes that propagate discrimination and division, hindering the progress toward racial unity and equality that is so desperately needed.

Brooklyn Community Board 9's purpose is to integrate and address the diverse concerns of its community members, not to alienate or diminish them. We must hold our leaders accountable. A public apology is not enough; tangible actions must follow to ensure that this behavior is neither tolerated nor repeated. Removing Ms. Cheung from her position will send a clear message that systemic racism, even in its nuances, will not be brushed aside.

We demand immediate action to replace Ms. Cheong with someone who respects and champions all community members, regardless of race or background. This change is not only necessary for healing but for setting a precedent of integrity and inclusivity within our governance.

By signing this petition, you stand in solidarity with the Brooklyn community in calling for not only justice but a stronger, more unified future for us all. Let's ensure our community board reflects the diverse and accepting spirit of Brooklyn. Sign now to make your voice heard.