I’m writing to endorse Kabir Karriem, our current Representative in Mississippi District 41. I have had the pleasure of knowing Kabir for many years. I can confidently say, he is one of the premier elected officials in our community and the state of Mississippi. Each day, I’m asked by citizens in this community, why is Pierre Beard running against Kabir? My answer is simple: Anyone meeting the qualifications can run for public office. Selecting a person with the skills and knowledge to represent your interest is the responsibility of the voters. It is a great responsibility.
Yes, Representative Karriem is my friend. One that I have mentored and trust unequivocally. My support is not based on our friendship, but my knowledge of his qualifications as an elected official. His academic training, complimented by his practical knowledge and experience uniquely qualifies him as the best candidate in this race. Unlike so many people that choose to seek public office with no training or understanding of the dynamics of the political process, he has been involved and around politics almost his entire life. He was always the young boy in the room when past political trailblazers were meeting and developing plans and strategies for the community. Whenever I was meeting with the late Joe Edwards, Dan Spann, Jackie Ball and Curtis Austin, Kabir was somewhere in the room. It’s understandable why he is one the premier elected officials in our community. All the reasons to make sure we vote to keep him as our State Representative. He is the senior member of the Lowndes County Delegation County in the House of Representative. Yes, seniority counts.
Before I conclude this letter, I have to ask Mr. Beard a rhetorical question, why are you running to be our State Representative? Of course, I know the answer. After witnessing the challenges and evolution in our community for a number of years, I’m saddened by the continued effort of a few people to sow chaos and division within the black community because of personal agendas. It’s time to start healing. That will require leaders with the insight and visionary thinking to do the right thing. Pierre, I respect your right to run for public office. However, I pray you don’t win. I worked diligently for you four years ago. The voters of Ward Four gave you an opportunity as City Councilman and need I say more. After the election, I even offered to serve as your mentor. You stated, “I was too hard.” Perhaps, if you had given me the chance, we would have both learned. By the way, losing isn’t all bad, if you have real convictions to keep you strong.
Leroy Brooks
Columbus
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Quality, in-depth journalism is essential to a healthy community. The Dispatch brings you the most complete reporting and insightful commentary in the Golden Triangle, but we need your help to continue our efforts. In the past week, our reporters have posted 33 articles to cdispatch.com. Please consider subscribing to our website for only $2.30 per week to help support local journalism and our community.
