On November 5^th, 2024 we will have a chance to use the full weight of the electoral process to determine who will represent us on the Richmond City Council for the next four years.

In an effort to help level the playing field, Radio Free Richmond has extended an offer to all seven candidates for the Council to post their own words to let you, the voters, know their positions on what they believe to be the important issues.

THIS IS FREE PUBLICITY.

The candidates have also been invited to post guest editorials on the issues of importance.

RFR will post a new candidate statement every couple of days.

RADIO FREE RICHMOND DOES NOT ENDORSE CANDIDATES—THEY OFFER A PLATFORM FOR COMMUNITY MEMBERS TO EXPRESS IDEAS ON ISSUES OF VALUE TO THE COMMUNITY

I’m excited to announce my candidacy for the Richmond City Council seat in District 5, which includes the Richmond Annex, Marina Bay, and the southernmost South Side neighborhoods– Eastshore, Laurel Park, Stege/Cortez, and Easter Hill Village. I am honored to have the endorsement of our current District 5 Councilmember, Gayle McLaughlin whose inspiring leadership and commitment to the community motivated me to engage in local politics.

My journey into Richmond politics began in 2013 at my first City Council meeting. I was drawn to Gayle’s plan to assist homeowners, like my husband and me, who were struggling with underwater mortgages. We had invested everything in our first home, only to see its value plummet. In that meeting, I felt both despair and gratitude for living in a city with leaders bold enough to hold banks accountable. This experience ignited my passion for advocacy, and for the past decade, I have volunteered for progressive causes in Richmond. It is a profound honor to carry on Gayle’s legacy.

As a first-time candidate, I want to express my deep love for Richmond and share the incredible potential I see here. I am an experienced activist and environmental advocate stepping into the political spotlight with a focus on environmental justice and community-driven policymaking. I believe that Richmond City Council faces critical decisions in the coming years, and I’m dedicated to ensuring our community’s voices are heard and prioritized.

Though I’m new to running for office, I have long been involved in Richmond’s political landscape through my work with the Richmond Progressive Alliance and various initiatives. My activism includes the “No Coal in Richmond” campaign to prevent coal transport through our neighborhoods and advocating for a comprehensive cleanup of the AstraZeneca site which is scheduled for redevelopment in the next two years. I do not support the previous council’s decision to cap toxic waste there; I will advocate for thorough cleanup before any housing is built.

Growing up in Detroit, I witnessed disparities in opportunity firsthand, which fueled my desire to advocate for equitable policies. I earned my PhD in sociocultural anthropology from UC Berkeley, equipping me to understand and address the complexities of our community. I have experience in labor organizing negotiations, and communication, and I currently consult for nonprofits, including one dedicated to improving healthcare for veterans.

With Richmond anticipating a budget increase due to a recent settlement with Chevron, I aim to be a responsible steward of those resources. A priority for me is creating a “rainy day fund” to prepare for a future without the local oil refinery, ensuring a stable tax base, and investing in city services to address issues like potholes and traffic safety. Public safety is another key focus. While adequate police is essential, it is only part of the solution. I am eager to support the development of a crisis response program that prioritizes mental health and community care. We also need increased investment in road safety measures, including a serious plan slow speeds on Carlson Avenue and Portrero Avenue.

I am excited to bring my experience and passion to work alongside my fellow residents for a brighter future. I look forward to the opportunity to serve you.