Jonesboro, Georgia recently made history when voters elected Donya Sartor as the city’s first-ever Black female mayor. Mayor-elect Sartor will be sworn into office this Friday to lead the diverse Atlanta suburb.
Voters Elect First Person of Color After 164 Years
Despite over 70% of Jonesboro residents being Black according to census data, Mayor Sartor is the first mayor of color in the city’s 164-year history. She first ran for city council in 2005 after noticing the lack of diversity in local leadership.
“I didn’t see any person of color, and at that moment I realized representation is really important,” remarked Sartor on what inspired her to enter politics. After serving as a councilwoman, Mayor-elect Sartor is excited to break barriers again as the inaugural Black female mayor.
Mayor-Elect Prioritizes Community Building and Engagement
As she prepares to take office, the trailblazing mayor-elect has outlined her vision to focus on education, increase transparency, and boost civic participation.
“We had a record number of voters come out and cast their ballot in this election, so I want to make sure I’m creative and intentional in creating opportunities for them to continue to be involved,” said Sartor on engaging more residents.
She also hopes her historic win will encourage other people of color to run for local office. “I hope that this sets a precedent that no matter your race, gender, or religion, that we need everybody’s voice at the table,” commented the mayor-elect.
Emotional Inauguration Ceremony Draws Diverse Crowds
At her swearing-in ceremony, Mayor Sartor delivered an emotional speech quoting her favorite Bible verse to a large and diverse audience. The event also saw other city officials take their oaths of office.
“It’s always important whenever we make history, it proves that the glass ceilings are breaking for everyone,” said the visibly moved Sartor. She added joyfully, “But now I’m ready to do the work for every citizen in the City of Jonesboro, and it’s going to be very exciting.”
