I was disappointed The American endorsed Jamilah Nasheed for BOA president. The rationale for dismissing Megan Green is illogical.
The American‘s mission is “to strengthen STL by empowering its black community,” which automatically disqualified Megan because of her whiteness and did not the other candidates because of their blackness. There are many white people in St Louis who empower the black community, Megan Green being one.
You also mentioned how Megan “has not demonstrated the necessary skill set to successfully maneuver in a complex political role like the aldermanic presidency.” This statement negates her four-plus years as Alderwoman of the 15th Ward and the skill set she has acquired in that role, as well as her building relationships within the Board of Alderman.
You mentioned her politics are “to the left of most city residents.” Some of her agenda includes civilian oversight of the police board, victims of domestic violence protections, marijuana legalization, higher minimum wage. Is that far left of what most city residents feel?
I have read The American every week since 1983. For the most part, I agree with your politics. However, I feel I need to call you out for your endorsement rationale of BOA president. It seemed to be based on skin color, being too progressive, and not being successful in a political role. All illogical.
Jay Diamond
St. Louis
Editor’s note: You misread part of the editorial. Her whiteness did not rule her out. Rather, we pointed that she is running on “an appealing progressive policy platform, much of which, if enacted into law, would help empower the black community and strengthen a racially divided St. Louis.” Regardless of her race, that is, she could well empower the black community if she could get her legislation passed. The problem is getting them enacted. We stand by our judgment that she “has not yet demonstrated the necessary skill set to successfully maneuver in a complex political role like the aldermanic presidency,” which is not a function of race.
