On Friday, March 26 local social justice advocate Mariah Moore formally announced her candidacy for the New Orleans City Council District D seat. Moore is a lifelong New Orleanian with deep roots in the citys 7th and 9th wards.
Moore explained, Ive been working up towards this moment for 2 years now…I just thought it was time for me to take it a step forward and be at some decision-making tables.
She decided to run for office Because I know we cant truly move forward if we arent all represented and we arent all allowed to have a voice. What Ive experienced is leadership is not present for everyday, hard-working New Orleanians.
She hopes that her representation will inspire young people in the city. She commented, This would send a message to all these young people growing up in a polarizing world that they can do anything…I want to inspire young people to stay here, to truly root themselves in our city.
Her representation is not only important for everyday New Orleanians but also people in the transgender and gender-nonconforming community. If elected, she would be the first transgender member of the New Orleans City Council.
Shes led some powerful and impactful advocacy efforts for transgender and gender-nonconforming people in New Orleans. Shes co-founder and co-director of House of Tulip and works as a National Organizer at the Transgender Law Center. Her impressive advocacy efforts have not gone unnoticed, resulting in her being named one of The Roots 100 Most Influential African Americans and listed as one of the Gambits 40 under 40 in 2020.
She wants to fight for bold solutions for the people of her district. One area shes particularly focused on is affordable housing. She commented, I think that affordable housing is huge. Its not a question that we are in a housing crisis right now. People are scrambling for places to live we have to really focus on how we are going to keep our people housed. In addressing this issue, shell take on ongoing problems like the present prevalence of Airbnbs in New Orleans.
She also hopes to improve public transportation for people in District D. She explained, Im a huge advocate for the expansion of public transportation clarifying that she not only wants to expand it but also improve its efficiency. Im going to be a huge advocate and ally for everything public transportation-related I want to see more access needs met for riders who are living with disabilities and who need special accommodations.
Shes entering a wide-open race since the current District D Councilmember Jared Brosset has reached his term limit. The primary will take place on October 9th.
Tune in tonight at 7 PM for The Announcement A Virtual Experience. The event will feature her candidacys formal announcement, speeches from community leaders, performances, and a live speech from Mariah Moore who will outline her plans for District D.
