Council District: St. Pete City Council, District 1
Q1 – Please describe your approach to addressing issues of race equity (2000 character limit).
The key components of identity race inequity start with being able to identify issues from a systemic perspective. One must first understand the problem and where it comes from. Next, it is important to determine the level of harm that has been done. Lastly, you must be willing to invest in the necessary changes to create equality.
Most racism is the result of belief systems that reduces access to obtainable resources or support. Many of these causes do not involve malicious intent. Understanding a condition’s origins is essential to choosing the best solution.
Q2 – Please list three (3) key issues related to race equity. Briefly explain how they relate to race equity. (2000 character limit)
1. Health disparities and access to care.
2. Generational poverty- education is key.
US Census confirms that Black Americans take home less income, are far less likely to own their homes and live shorter lives than White Americans. They are more likely to suffer from core morbidity due to diet and lack access to healthy foods.
Q3 – Of those issues identified in question 5, which priority/priorities will you address first? How and why? (2000 character limit)
Personal health and safety are vital to an individual’s personal and professional success. It is the primary responsibility of city council to make booth a priority for ALL residents. We must eliminate the food desert in Midtown. We have failed to provide adequate policing which has led to an unprecedented number of murders.
Q4 – Two ways I have previously worked to address race equity are: (1000 character limit)
I have been working with, and advocating for, individuals with health disparities for the last two decades. Until you have walked in the shoes of someone who has been impacted by these disparities, been shut out of the process, and desperate for resources you will not understand. I have been in that position, even though it was not based on race. Healthcare measures your worth by the insurance card you hold. Understanding and investigating the depth of any disparities is the first step forward.
Second, though my work with HomeAid Tampa Bay we were able to build housing for chronically homeless and suddenly homeless families. I have firsthand experience and knowledge surround systemic, generational poverty. It is a cycle that has to be broken through multiple layers of support and coordinated case management of several agencies for real change to occur.
Q5 – Two ways I will collaborate with others to create more equitable systems are: (600 character limit)
We can do better than just increasing minimum wage. We need to prepare and equip those who are disenfranchised with the tool for success. Programs that offer financial planning, budgeting, and continued education programs such as trade schools are an essential part of empowering individuals to reach new potential. It is not just about making more money; it is about encouraging trades that our community needs today and will continue to rely on in the future. Empowering those who have been suppressed by our systems to rise to their potential.
