FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 4, 2013
NATIONAL CONTACT: Kali Akuno
PHONE: 323.422.6025
LOCAL JACKSON CONTACT: Chokwe Antar Lumumba
PHONE: 601.629.7684
Chokwe Lumumba Elected Mayor of Jackson, MS with Clear Mandate
The People of Jackson Have Spoken: “One City, One Aim, One Destiny”
With more than 85% of the vote, the people of Jackson clearly voiced their support for Chokwe Lumumba’s vision of a unified, democratic Jackson. Lumumba, an attorney with a long record of grassroots activism and leadership in Jackson and nationwide, offered his heartfelt thanks to residents for their faith and confidence in his candidacy.
“I want to thank each and everyone who made this victory possible. I am grateful for your vote and your trust. I am committed to upholding that trust,” says Lumumba . “ This has been a team effort from the very beginning. We have always said, ‘The people must decide.’ And the people have spoken for a revitalized Jackson that works for all of us, not just the few. ”
The hotly contested race drew national attention as Lumumba is considered one of the most progressive candidates ever to be elected mayor of a major city – particularly in the South. The Mayor Elect was outspent by more than 4-1 by his primary opponent as well as the target of vicious attack ads. Despite the challenges, Lumumba stayed focus on issues of economic justice, democracy and the underlying root causes of Jackson’s social problems.
“The vast majority of people saw through the smear tactics and really responded to our message and vision,” says Safiya Omari, campaign manager for Elect Chokwe Lumumba Mayor. “We have faith in Jackson. Our people know the deal. Chokwe speaks to their everyday reality.”
Campaigning with the message “One City, One Aim, One Destiny,” the campaign brought together a wide range of constituencies across the city committed to a progressive vision of a just and equitable Jackson. An important component of the citywide organizing effort is the Peoples Assemblies – grassroots leaders from across the city that have been working together with Lumumba to build a people centered policy agenda.
Says Lumumba, “This has been a grassroots campaign from the start. And my commitment to listening to you, the people of Jackson, won’t end with the campaign. I look forward to working with everyone committed to building a just and thriving city. We have challenges ahead. We have work to do but I believe we are up to the task before us.”