MONTGOMERY, Alabama — Today, the SPLC Action Fund endorsed two candidates in the upcoming local elections in Sandy Springs, Georgia.
The first endorsement was for mayoral candidate Dontaye Carter, an outspoken community advocate and communications professional, who has served locally as the vice president of the Atlanta NAACP and as chair of the North Fulton Democrats. In these roles, he helped lead community mobilization efforts around voting rights and social justice, working closely with the family of Ahmaud Arbery to demand accountability and ensure that Arbery’s story was told with accuracy, context and humanity. Carter has centered his campaign around providing the opportunity for every resident in Sandy Springs to climb the economic ladder, while also ensuring that they have a responsive and accountable local government.
“Dontaye Carter understands that, as a public servant, you are chosen to represent every member of the community, not just the wealthy few,” said Madison Hollon, program manager of political campaigns, SPLC Action Fund. “It’s not enough to listen to constituents; leaders at the local level need to include them in that planning and decision-making that can help power their cities toward a more vibrant future. Carter has committed to giving those who have typically been pushed to the side a seat at the table and creating a local government that is reflective of the amazing diversity in Sandy Springs, which will help to address existing inequities in the city and make it a better place to live for everyone.”
The SPLC Action Fund also endorsed incumbent Melody Kelley in her race for City Council in District 2. Kelley, who was elected to the council in 2021, is the first Black official to have ever been elected in Sandy Springs. An educator, public school volunteer and civic leader, Kelley fought alongside families against the closure of Spalding Drive Elementary School, pushed for the expansion of quality housing opportunities for residents, and helped to bring more than $90 million in public investment to the North Sandy Springs community.
“In her tenure as a member of the City Council, Melody Kelley forged a strong track record of delivering investments that truly made a difference in the everyday lives of her community members,” added Hollon. “With another term, she has committed to continuing to deliver tangible results for her constituents by prioritizing reconstruction of a local fire station, supporting redevelopment efforts in North Sandy Springs and working toward improvements to pedestrian access to key intersections and sidewalks. Both leaders offer Sandy Springs residents a brighter vision for the next decade, with practical solutions that will enhance quality of life for communities throughout the city.”
Elections in Sandy Springs are scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 4. Learn more about voting in Georgia.
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About the SPLC Action Fund
SPLC Action Fund is a catalyst for racial justice in the South and beyond, working in partnership with communities to dismantle white supremacy, strengthen intersectional movements and advance the human rights of all people. For more information, visit www.splcactionfund.org.