The announcement that 31 people have applied to fill the District 7 seat on Columbus City Council that will be vacated by Shayla Favor is both inspiring and humbling. This number of applicants speaks volumes about the civic engagement in our community and the passion of so many to step up and serve–and maybe also the ease of a new online submission process. Nonetheless, I am proud to count myself among these 31 applicants, and I believe this moment offers an opportunity to reflect on the importance of community, representation, leadership, and collaboration in shaping the future of our city.
District 7 is one of the most vibrant and diverse areas in Columbus. Some of the neighborhoods which make up District 7 include Downtown, the Near East Side, the Discovery District, Franklinton, Victorian Village, Franklin Park, and parts of German Village—each with its own unique opportunities and needs. As we prepare for new leadership in District 7, the question we should wrestle with isn’t just who will fill this seat—it’s how we ensure that the voices of all residents are heard and uplifted.
This process can also highlight the power of representation in local government.
Our communities thrive when those who guide us reflect the diversity of the people they serve. As someone who grew up in a lower-income home, immigrated from Jamaica, and proudly became a naturalized U.S. citizen, I know firsthand how vital it is to have leaders who understand the lived experiences of those they represent. When our leaders act inclusively, it creates a foundation for policies that are equitable and hopefully solutions that are sustainable.
The path to serving Columbus—whether through appointment or election—is not one I take lightly. I am committed to advocating for issues that matter to District 7; things like affordable housing, community-centered safety solutions, equitable economic growth, and the preservation of our neighborhoods’ cultural identities.
But this process isn’t just about me or any single applicant. It’s about the collective future of our communities, our city–our home. It’s about creating a Columbus where every resident, current and future, feels seen, valued, and supported. This is why I encourage everyone to engage in this appointment process, whether by attending the public hearing on December 18, sharing feedback with Council, or simply staying informed about the candidates and their visions.
As we move forward, I am reminded of the responsibility we all share in shaping the city we call home. Leadership doesn’t begin or end with a title—it begins with listening, collaborating, showing up, and doing the hard work.
To the residents of Columbus’ District 7, I promise that regardless of the outcome of this process, my dedication to you and our shared community will remain steadfast–I’m still running in 2025. Together, we can build a Columbus that is more inclusive, more equitable, and thriving at new levels—a city where more voices are heard, and all dreams are possible.
Let’s continue this work–together.
.d.