What did running for mayor teach you about politics?
Running for mayor of Chicago showed me how corrupt our city’s political system really is. While it was one of the best experiences of my life, I was able to see the many barriers that have been put in place to stop Chicago from getting a true leader. It showed me that local elections are the most important and the only way to get people to vote is to give them hope.
Why is it important for Black voices to be heard and represented in politics?
I want to push back against the premise of the question and say that it is important for Black voices who have [not] experienced a level of privilege to be represented. There are many Black voices in politics who come from privilege and who don’t understand the effects of poverty. Clarence Thomas is the only Black Supreme Court justice and he does not represent the interests of most Black Americans. All skin folk ain’t kinfolk. Those who come from the poorest neighborhoods are the best voices to listen to because they understand the problems America must face.
