As we head into the General Election, I want to take a moment to focus on what's important and to thank you for helping bring us to this point. It is both humbling and inspiring to know that - win, lose or draw tomorrow - we have already made history in Central Brooklyn. It will be a long time before anyone in Bedford-Stuyvesant and Crown Heights forgets this election.
One of the reasons I stayed away from elected politics for so long in my life is because I know that in the heat of campaigns, communities often become divided as competition becomes more intense. Political camps often say and do what they feel is necessary to win, regardless of the truth. I will not fall prey to this impulse, no matter how much election gossip and media coverage seek to polarize us. This campaign has always been about bringing people together and celebrating what is powerful and brilliant about this community. I want to cross the finish line knowing that we were true to this ideal.
Along those lines, no matter what happens on Election Day, I want all those associated with my campaign to maintain respect for the incumbent Al Vann.
This does not mean we do not put forward a critique; I believe, perhaps more deeply than ever, that we owe it to ourselves as a community to hold our elected officials accountable and that we should build a pipeline to new leadership. And I reject the idea suggested by some elder political figures that I should "wait my turn." As a 46 year old man with 24 years of leadership experience - which has included grassroots organizing, institution-building, and policy advocacy - I am firm in my conviction that the time for my candidacy is now, regardless what timetable the political establishment has set.
Regardless, I wish Mr. Vann nothing but good fortune, health and happiness. He deserves that and more. And if it is within my power, I will make sure this community honors him in a way befitting a statesman. This is the energy and spirit that I wish to prevail over this election.
The message to take home on Election Day is that, despite the spectator sport of politics, this election is not about political personalities, but about the prospect of improving the condition of people's lives. And I am ready to start that work with you as a City Councilman.
Let's make it happen.
Peace,
Mark
To read the article on Mark Winston Griffith's run against long-time Brooklyn incumbent Albert Vann, check out the New York Times.
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