City leaders must actively recruit diverse candidates and demand equitable policies that break down barriers.
most diverse cities in the United States. After growing up in New York City, another diverse place, I looked forward to experiencing diversity on the other side of the country.
I began observing Anchorage politics and was shocked to see a lack of diversity on the Assembly. This defies logic, considering I live in Mountain View, one of America’s most diverse neighborhoods, and our schools are As a child, I followed New York City Council meetings and local politics. As a person of color from New York City, I was proud to see people like me on the council.
When I moved to Anchorage, I expected similar diversity but quickly realized there wasn’t. After recent elections, the absence of people of color on the Assembly is deeply troubling to me. I have been living in Anchorage since 2011 and have worked with many outstanding leaders of color who would excel on the Assembly, so why aren’t more people of color running?.
The base salary is $60,008; the chair earns $67,204.80, plus a $250 biweekly stipend and $6,500 annually for medical. Most cannot maintain a modest lifestyle on this salary in Anchorage. Residents would need a second job or a partner’s income. An Assembly role is full time with significant responsibilities for which many cities pay elected officials fairly, with a salary commensurate with their long hours and commitment.
InRunning for office requires support from city leaders, elected officials, unions and private leaders. Many people of color lack access to these networks and are not invited into these circles. Are people of color being recruited to run?
The answer appears to be a clear no. We must take action to ensure our Assembly truly reflects all of our communities, support emerging leaders of color, urge city leaders to actively recruit diverse candidates and demand equitable policies that break down barriers. Anchorage’s youth need to see representatives who look like them and advocate for their interests. Let’s come together and make our Assembly more inclusive.
Our future depends on it.has lived in Anchorage since 2011 and worked for years in the nonprofit sector serving young people in the community.
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