As Atlanta’s mayoral race is nearing, a racially charged viral internet memo has sparked controversy.
In the letter, the anonymous sender is asking voters to throw their support behind the “best black candidate in the race” Lisa Borders, and highlights the notion that “for the first time in 25 years, African Americans could lose the Mayoral seat in Atlanta, Georgia, especially if there is a run-off.”
The memo also stated “time is of the essence … in order to defeat a Norwood mayoral candidacy.” Mary Norwood happens to be a white candidate and is said to be the leading in the race. “We have to get out now and work in a manner to defeat her without a runoff, and the key is a significant Black turnout in the general election,” the letter stated.
A state Senator who is also running for mayor, Kasim Reed, demanded a response from Borders. “Not only do I find these comments racially charged and vitriolic, I completely repudiate them because they are fundamentally wrong and do not belong in today’s society. I call on Ms. Borders to do the right thing and denounce such divisive, racist language immediately,” Reed said.
Borders response: “My run for mayor is not about race. It is not about rhetoric. It is about results.”
