I am honored and grateful to serve as the new President of the African American Mayors Association, and I want to express my deepest appreciation to all of you for trusting me with this responsibility. I also want to extend my thanks to Frank, AMMA staff and the entire leadership team for their stewardship and service to AAMA over the last year.

As we stand on the precipice of the 10th anniversary of AAMA during one of the most significant presidential election cycles in recent memory, it is crucial to highlight AAMA’s mission and purpose. AAMA mayors represent a diverse range of communities, from our nation’s largest cities to our smallest towns and villages. However, we all share a common goal – to use our collective platforms to amplify, advocate, and agitate for equitable policies and resources that our communities deserve.

Under my leadership, my vision for AAMA is to leverage our collective strength to deliver real impact for historically underserved and marginalized communities. I will be a strong voice for all Black Mayors, regardless of the size of their platforms, and will focus on developing strategic partnerships with nationally allied organizations and leaders.

As we move forward, AAMA’s policy priorities will be anchored around key areas that are critical to the well-being of our communities.  We will prioritize public safety, address the affordability crisis, improve healthcare access, and build and reinforce 21st century cities through investments in transportation and infrastructure and let’s not forget environmental justice.

I am excited and committed to working with all of you to advance these priorities and create positive change for our communities. Together, we can make a meaningful difference and continue to be a powerful force for progress.

Thank you again for the honor of serving as your leader.

Sincerely,

Mayor Shawyn Patterson-Howard (Mount Vernon, NY)

President African American Mayors Association