Why I am Running
We are facing challenging times. The new challenges posed by COVID-19, and the persistent challenges presented by systematic racism are at the forefront today. People are weary of condolences and they should be. It was horrifying to see what happened to George Floyd. People in our country rightly believe that this kind of treatment will continue to happen because there is no fundamental change that has resulted from the countless others before George Floyd. Until there is an acceptance of the fundamental premise that no one person is better than another, there can be no healing. It is not enough to speak out or speak loudly. We must see clearly, seek truth and fight oppression. Systemic racism and white supremacy will only change with structural change that is built on truth. I encourage everyone to find something tangible to do to further change.
We should also be unwilling to accept a narrative that places our community and our Country second to the personal gain.
I am running for alderman of the 4th Ward because I want to continue my work on evolving as a community. As Evanstonians, we interact on many levels as a community: at work and play, in school and at worship, at athletic & cultural arts events, in the pursuit of our hobbies and in support of the many social causes in which we believe. That interaction is what makes us such a vibrant community. What's wonderful about Evanston is that it has always naturally fostered interaction. Evanston already has what new, planned communities are striving to create: neighborhoods where neighbors know each other and can enjoy a 'walk-to-everything' lifestyle. With our local shops and restaurants, wonderful schools, libraries, churches and synagogues, Northwestern University, and most uniquely, the natural beauty of our magnificent lakefront with its miles of public parks and beaches, Evanston is truly a community rich with many gifts.
At the same time, there is more than one Evanston. It is time to break down the walls and barriers that still exist as obstacles to equity and opportunity.
Our local businesses are in crisis. We work diligently to provide a supportive environment and to develop strategies and infrastructure to give our businesses their best shot at success.
Practical Realities
It is my opinion that our local government should go beyond providing basic services. That it should strive to create and maintain the highest quality of life for our residents and businesses.
In order to accomplish this goal, the City must be economically strong. With a challenging economic environment already upon us, we will have to be more diligent than ever in managing our finances. In making decisions, our strategies and planning must incorporate the principles of sustainable growth and must take economic and social impact into account. We have an obligation to prioritize our social needs such as affordable housing, education and job creation. Our greatest asset in Evanston is our people.
In undertaking these plans, your alderman must represent you. Your alderman should listen, be responsive and should be open to all points of view on an issue.
In my personal and professional life, I have been actively engaged in problem solving. This requires hard work, diplomacy and the ability to bring people together. If reelected, I intend to continue to do this job with civility, compassion and an open mind. I believe that I have the skills, the desire and the motivation to help Evanston through this difficult period and emerge as an even stronger community. I am asking for your vote this April in support of our communities.
