08/23/2017
As many of you know, I was inspired to run for the District 1 seat on the Atlanta City Council out of the experience of being among those homeowners in Peoplestown targeted by the City's misuse of eminent domain. I responded to community residents asking for better representation in District 1. I offered myself as a candidate for City Council District 1 to help to shine a light on people and their interests,
to fight for the needs of communities that are often exploited by predatory practices and policies like displacement, and to empower those who have been left out of the progress the City celebrates.
In the meantime, we have been in litigation for almost 10 months and we expected that we would prevail before the campaign shifted into high gear. Unfortunately, an adverse ruling by the court requires that I turn my full attention to the case and the fight to make sure that the city does not use its power to displace even more people simply to make room for parks, ponds and other luxuries.
I am undaunted, and we will appeal this decision and continue this 4 year fight for justice with my neighbors whose homes and communities are also under attack. This appeal and the threat to my home and family will require a great deal of energy and focus, which would make it difficult to run a successful campaign.
It is with a heavy heart and clear vision, that I have made the hard decision to suspend the campaign to focus on our case and my neighbors' case and to fight for precedence that limits the use of eminent domain to those rare circumstances when it is the only option. I regret having to withdraw from the campaign, but I do not regret having entered it.
I am grateful for those who endorsed me and those who raised money for me and for the countless conversations with my neighbors and other Atlanta residents about how good representation can improve their quality of life. The love and support of people like you have sustained me and helped me to champion a people-powered cause that serves everyone, not just the privileged and the powerful.
While I am withdrawing from the campaign, I am not withdrawing from the fight for affordable housing, sustainable infrastructure, sound and responsive leadership and representation that is inclusive and accessible. Our campaign has highlighted these issues and I've used the resources raised to make sure the things that matter to people are prioritized and that those running for office are responding to them accordingly. I will continue to serve and I will be active to ensure that our elected officials represent the interests of the people who vote them into office and who make District 1 and the City of Atlanta such a special place.
Your prayers, encouragement and donations have allowed me to make sure that these issues are priorities and I am grateful for and humbled by the outpouring of support. I have spent all of the resources we've raised to that end. If you would like to discuss your investment in our efforts, please contact me directly.
Thank you for everything. I appreciate your belief in our efforts for fair, responsible and inclusive leadership for District 1 and for the City of Atlanta more than you will ever know! I am truly grateful.
I will continue to fight the good fight on these cases and in the community, at meetings, at city hall and beyond.
Thank you for your continued support, prayers and words of encouragement. "The people united will never be defeated!"
Peace,
Tanya
