A product of New York City public schools, Erik graduated from Norman Thomas High School, Philippa Schuyler Middle School and P.S. 151. Erik later attended St. John's University, where he received his associate of science in business administration.

Erik Martin Dilan is currently serving in his fourth term in the New York State Assembly, serving the people of the 54th district. The district covers parts of Bedford Stuyvesant, Bushwick, Cypress-Hills and East New York Prior to his election to the State Assembly, Erik was elected to and served for 12 years in the New York City Council. During his tenure in the Council, he served as the chairperson for the housing & building committee, chairperson of the Brooklyn Delegation and as a member of the budget negotiating team. In these roles, Erik had the honor of setting legislative priorities related to housing and construction in the City of New York, being a point person and consensus builder for the Council's Brooklyn Delegation on, major legislative items, passage of City budget, funding to Brooklyn cultural groups and not for profit organizations.

While Erik was always active in his community from a very young age, he began his career in public service as a member of community school board # 32. Where he was able to work with other board members, to find the best educators and policies to serve the children of Bushwick. He also served on Brooklyn's Community Board # 4.

Erik currently resides in the Cypress-Hills section of Brooklyn with his wife Jannitza and children Daniel, Lea, and Matthew.