Voting in local elections is vitally important because it’s where we can make the most impact. This year in particular, we have an opportunity in Memphis to set a course for the future of our city – to decide whether we will preserve the status quo or whether we will move Memphis forward by electing progressive leadership that truly represents the interests and values of our community, no matter what neighborhood they might live in. That’s why we need to vote.
It’s no secret that alongside Memphis’ great history of civil rights activism is a long and troubled history of racism and poverty, crime and violence. The City of Memphis has not been “in the business of funding education,” as we are so often told by members of our City Council. In 2014, the city budget went from investing $65 million in K-12 education to $0. By comparison, our budget for police is over $270 million. These same elected officials seem dumbfounded about how to address our city’s issues of crime and poverty, particularly among our young people. Unfortunately, these are not issues that can be policed away.I’m a new Text block ready for your content.
As we close out our Bicentennial year, Memphis must look forward and decide what kind of legacy we want to leave to our children and future generations. That’s why this election is so important. We have an opportunity to change the tide and begin to address these issues with a plan for the future that includes real, substantial funding for the education of all our young people. That starts with electing leadership that is committed to equity and will stand for our children!
Sign the pledge to vote in the Memphis city election and make sure your voice is heard!
Early voting is underway and will run through Saturday, September 28.
Election Day is Thursday, October 3! Please encourage your friends, family members, and co-workers to get out and vote! The future of our City and our young people depend upon it!
