PLATFORM
LIST OF ISSUES
Education
Notable intellectual and scholar W.E.B. DuBois once said, "Education and work are the levers to uplift a people." The quality and support of our educational system in the county is critical to our ability to provide citizens with the quality of life they deserve. No child should have to be at a disadvantage academically because of their social location. Likewise, our teachers and staff within the Alamance-Burlington School System and Alamance Community College should be rightly compensated for the important work they do: forming the minds of the next generation of leaders and visionaries that will carry the torch of excellence, innovation, and diversity. This will be one of my key concerns.
Economic Stability
According to the Alamance Community Assesment, our county has 18.3% of the population living in poverty, higher than the state. There are approximately 27% of our children living in poverty. It is vital that we encourage businesses to come to the area as well as ensure the adequate training of our residents so that they my be able to work, provide, and contribute to our local economy. I am supporter of entrepreneurship and innovation that will honor our time long-time industries, such as agriculture, manufacturing, and professional trade while also looking to future industry possibilities.
Healthcare
Access to healthcare was among the leading issues within our county according to a recent county-wide assesment. While the recent addition of public transportation will greatly aid residents in mobility and getting to these services, we must have a greater presence of physicians and mental health professionals in our area to meet the demand. The health of our residents is critical to their quality of life as well as that of their families. In order to be an example in the state and nation, we must ensure that we are doing all that we can to ensure our residents have access to healthcare.
Food Deserts and Access to Nutritious Options
The lack of access to healthcare is also connected with the lack of access to quality foods and nutrition. Many of our residents are living in food deserts, defined as "an urban area in which it is difficult to buy affordable or good-quality fresh food." Our surplus of fast-foods and mini-marts have led to the absence of quality vegetables, foods, and other healthy options. By working with local farmers, business owners, and community members, we will be able to ensure every neighborhood has access to quality nutrition as well as ensure they have the skills to prepare these foods.
Diversity
Differences and diversity are two of the things make our country great. Alamance County is home to nearly 150,000 people, made up different races, religion, genders, socio-economic statuses, and educational attainment. These individuals also have dreams and ideas that could greatly benefit the common good within our community. I am committed to ensuring that all voices within our county are heard. I believe that intentionally cultivating diversity will allow our county to showcase our great history and prepare for the great future that lies ahead.