Dear Editor:

Remembering the days when elections were based on “the work” and not “the worker?” It seems that in more recent times, we have placed an emphasis on community “icons” rather than community “I CANS.” “I can” candidates roll up their sleeves and work; they rarely make excuses. As election time draws near, hopefully voters will take ownership of their community and vote according to the works of those who have sowed a seed to increase the economy, improve education and build a positive rapport with the citizens of Selma.

It is election time again and the political bees are swarming, soliciting and swearing to the citizens about their plans for Selma’s future. Some are speaking against candidates and making false promises. Many are running on emotions and not objectives. Some candidates have “personal agendas” and not “people agendas.” For some, this election is not about a passion to build a stairway for a better Selma, but rather it is a pass for ego building and making swaggering statements with little meaning.

Worthy candidates should be able to discuss a political platform that will create a healthier Selma. They can answer the tough questions. Their discussions should include ways to minimize community crime and maximize youth potential. Candidates should ensure the youth are a key part of their political platform. Children are the future, and without placing a major focus on them, the community is already dead. Additionally, education should be a big concern for candidates. More funding and community involvement should be embedded into the local school organization. Economic development is another issue that needs more attention. By addressing the above mentioned objectives will increase economic initiatives. Big businesses are not willing relocate to a place where their children are not valued or the education system is not optimized. Taxpayers should not be forced to choose private schools for their children’s education when their monies are used in public schools.

The current administration has done much work with setting the stage for success in Selma. Remember that “Rome was not built in a day.” They have done a lot in a short period of time with very little resources. Selma is a historical city that deserves to be recognized in a positive way. This city can be revived with the right mix of common sense, expertise, and practicality.

 

Dr. Lawanna M. Lewis

Former Selma resident

Atlanta, Ga.