Southern Mayors Spark National Dialogue, Earn Ovation at Pancakes & Politics Forum III
(L-R) Mayor Steven L. Reed of Montgomery, AL, Mayor LaToya Cantrell of New Orleans, LA and Mayor Andre Dickens of Atlanta, GA
Credit: Monica Morgan Photography
At the most recent Pancakes and Politics forum III, three prominent Southern mayors, LaToya Cantrell of New Orleans, Steven L. Reed of Montgomery, and Andre Dickens of Atlanta, convened to discuss the unique leadership challenges faced by African American and female mayors in Republican-dominated states. The conversation was live-streamed on Facebook and YouTube, which drew national attention. Along with a mix of civic leaders, students, and policy advocates, the mayors offered a candid look at the pressures of governing while pushing for inclusive growth.
Mayor Cantrell highlighted the significance of securing over $500 million in infrastructure investments for New Orleans and her administration’s work to expand economic mobility for historically marginalized communities. She acknowledged the continuous uphill battle of being a Black female and emphasized the importance of community support for female leaders.
“We can’t afford to wait for permission to uplift our people,” Cantrell said.
“You go from celebration one day and literally crucifixion the next.”
Bishop Corletta J. Vaughn of the Holy Ghost Cathedral Church of Detroit agreed, commenting on the Facebook Live stream, “The FUTURE IS FEMALE.”
Mayor Reed detailed the tightrope he walks in Montgomery, balancing progressive initiatives with political realities.
“There’s no playbook for this,” Reed said.
“You have to lead with conviction while keeping your finger on the pulse of your community.”
He emphasized the importance of investing in public trust as much as public projects.
Mayor Dickens focused on Atlanta’s rapid growth and the need to prepare residents for the jobs of tomorrow, particularly in the green economy. He stressed workforce development and affordable housing as pillars of his strategy.
“We’re not just growing; we’re aiming for equitable growth,” Dickens said.
Marcus Ingram , who now resides in Detroit, once lived in Atlanta and has seen firsthand the progressive direction in the Midwest and down south. He commented on the YouTube Live about his and his family’s experience.
“I was not and raised in Detroit and very happy to see the come back, Ingram said.
“Also, I lived in Atlanta fo 10 year and Mayor Dickens done good in the city and was a great mentor to my son at Georgia Tech.”
All three leaders recurringly stressed the importance of intentional development, growing cities in ways that prevent displacement, promote equity, and foster community ownership. They called for policies that strengthen existing ecosystems rather than impose external agendas. The mayors also acknowledged the relentless public scrutiny and political pressures that come with their roles. Still, they shared a unified message of resilience, commitment to community, and belief in grassroots-driven change.
Streaming Audience Feedback:
- DAE’〽️🏈, Metro Detroit Resident, commented: “Facts the environmental, government, defense & private sectors have plenty of jobs, and non-profit opportunities as well. I’m going to change the entire ecosystem & supply chain in Det”
- Gerald Chiddick, a Detroit Resident, commented: “Great conversation.”
- Calvin Mahone commented: “These are great discussions…I’m doing my own listening session…Thank you”
Watch the replay of Pancakes and Politics Forum III May 22, 2025 and join the conversation!