The most recent Atlanta mayoral forum took place this weekend at my spiritual community, Hillside International Truth Center. Right in the thick of autumn, it was 73°F outside, but just inside the sanctuary, temperatures were swiftly increasing. It quickly became apparent that certain candidates were not interested in constantly discussing the crime problems in Atlanta and consistently redirected away from the subject. This appears to be a smart strategy as no other candidate has as strong of a track record on reducing crime as Kasim Reed. While crime has been at the forefront with respect to this election cycle, this forum brought forth the topics of literacy, career training, poverty, mental health, and infrastructure while finding a comfortable resting place over the hot-button issue of gentrification. Mo Ivory did an excellent job moderating and ensuring that a variety of topics were covered.
There are fourteen candidates on the ballot for mayor of Atlanta and an additional five "write-in" candidates. With almost 20 candidates to choose from, here are the forerunners thus far: Kasim Reed, Felicia Moore (who is my fellow church member at Hillside), Antonio Brown (who was late because his car was stolen), Andre Dickens (who left early but threw shade at Mr. Brown for being late), and Sharon Gay (who never showed), respectively.
Another fellow Hillsider stood up during the Q&A portion of the forum to press candidates (most of whom work for the city at-present) on the confusing issue of Eminent Domain affecting the community of Peoplestown. She passionately exclaimed, "Displacement is a crime. It's the crime we're experiencing... at the hands of the city that we're paying taxes to. My neighbors here worked for the city for 30 years and in their senior years they have to fight the city that they gave their blood, sweat and tears to." She was visibly upset and fighting back emotion but she eventually gave way to heartfelt weeping.
My heart goes out to the residents of Peoplestown. What happened next confused me. If I were a resident of the Peoplestown community, I would not be at ease from the responses that came from the candidates. Mr. Brown stated, “As mayor, I will ensure you and you have my word and my promise that we are going to rectify this.” He never stated how he would rectify the situation nor what his position was. Mr. Reed seems to believe that the residents of Peoplestown should be “made whole” for having to relocate but that remaining in Peoplestown would be dangerous for 400 people who could lose their lives due to flooding risks. Mrs. Moore stated that she regrets voting for the eminent domain of Peoplestown because she did not know that people lived there before she voted. I find that troubling as the purpose of the vote was to save lives and property.
Clarity is important. This is why it is imperative to do extensive research when it comes to voting. All candidates spoke well on each topic so I suggest listening to the forums in their entirety to determine who most closely aligns with your values. There isn't much time to decide so be sure to weigh all of your options soon. Early voting is in full effect and election day is November 2nd. With that being said, it's no wonder why the fiery furnace has gotten seven times hotter. Who will emerge victoriously? Who do you think is the best choice for mayor of Atlanta for such a time as this?
If you live in Atlanta, go here to find your voting poll location. If you don't live in Atlanta, it is still wise to keep your eyes on this race as Atlanta is the epicenter of black commerce. The leadership in Atlanta could affect your business interests in the future, especially in regard to real estate investments.
-Consuela Allen
Consuela Allen is a lover of words from written to spoken. Wherever words can be used to convey emotion, provoke thought, or simply encourage others on their journey of personal growth, you can find Consuela in the midst of communication. Consuela is a Certified Life-Purpose Coach, Certified Peer Specialist, Respect Institute Speaker, Ordained Minister, Songwriter, and former publishing administrator to multi-platinum music professionals.
Photos By: Asa Williams
