Amara Andrews for Cedar Rapids mayor: Bold leadership and righteous energy

Are we better off now than we were four years ago? If your answer gives you pause, then we must consider a change. As Iowa’s second largest city and one of the largest economic engines regionally, our potential is limitless. Realizing that potential requires bold leadership, and not just a modest upgrade.

Some folks have suggested that because I’m not a native Cedar Rapidian, I can’t possibly share Cedar Rapids values. The truth is, three out of the four candidates were not born here. We’re transplants, and that is something we should celebrate.

My values were passed down to me from my father, who was raised in the segregated South, and my mother, who was born right here in the Midwest. They both worked hard to provide a loving home. I went to college and law school. I worked as a teacher in the inner city, for a nonprofit that sought to close the achievement gap and ran an incubator program for entrepreneurs. I currently serve as a leader in one of the largest homegrown businesses in our city. Now, I hope to work for you.

We are in the midst of extraordinary times, and we need leaders with clear-eyed vision to help us navigate massive recovery - from floods to the pandemic, to the derecho. These are tough challenges, but with the right leadership, they can provide us opportunity, and a real shot at renewal.

It has been an honor to run for mayor. I’ve had the chance to meet thousands of people who, at their core, share our values. We value community and one another, no matter your race, creed or country of origin. We all choose Cedar Rapids because we believe in its potential. My promise to you if elected: I will lead with compassion, thoughtfulness and a righteous energy to move our community forward.

Amara Andrews is a candidate for Cedar Rapids mayor.