Chi Ossé on Powerlifting as Political Resistance

New York City Council member Chi Ossé competed in his first powerlifting competition, describing the sport as a form of self-care and political resistance. Ossé, who identifies as a leftist queer person, began lifting a year and a half ago at a CrossFit box and trained with Anthony Aristy. He set two personal records at the competition. The week leading up to the event was hectic: he attended the White House Correspondents' Dinner, filmed a video with Mayor Zohran Mamdani at Gracie Mansion, and was arrested protesting a constituent's eviction. Ossé aims to consume 215 grams of protein daily, a rule from Aristy. He views getting strong as an act of defiance against the manosphere and patriarchy, challenging stereotypes that associate powerlifting with white, straight, conservative men.