Greensboro's African American Community Newspaper since 1967
After years of dedicated service on the City Council, including her current role as Mayor Pro Tem, Marikay Abuzuaiter has the proven commitment, collaborative spirit, and strategic vision needed to lead our city toward a future defined by true equity and sustainable growth.
Greensboro stands at a crucial inflection point. While we celebrate our recent economic triumphs, we must ensure the benefits reach every corner of our city. For too long, East Greensboro has been marginalized, and the critical need for equitable development must be addressed with intention and action.
Marikay Abuzuaiter understands this urgency. She has consistently championed initiatives to revitalize underserved neighborhoods, not by destroying community fabric, but through strategic growth that honors and uplifts existing residents. Her long-standing record as an at-large council member demonstrates a deep devotion to all constituents, a commitment built on listening and partnership.
Delivering Affordable Housing and Smart Development
The need for affordable housing and economic development that doesn’t displace residents is paramount. Abuzuaiter has highlighted her success in helping bring real, tangible, affordable units to fruition through collaboration and smart policy. She emphasizes a hands-on approach to development, stating she walks the properties to ensure new developments “fit the neighborhood’s character” and are “strategically sited” to avoid negative impacts on traffic and neighborhood quality of life.
Her commitment is to a sustainable mix of housing, ensuring there are affordable options for all Greensboro residents, including our vital first responders. Her vision for economic development is one that keeps the community moving forward by attracting high-wage jobs while simultaneously bolstering the infrastructure that supports it.
Throughout her tenure, Abuzuaiter has demonstrated an essential skill for any effective mayor: the ability to forge consensus. She understands that a thriving Greensboro is built on collaboration between the city council, neighborhood groups, the business community and our diverse residents. Her leadership style is not about imposing a vision but about bringing stakeholders together to create one.
A core tenet of her platform—and one we strongly support—is a commitment to responsible economic growth that benefits all citizens. This means attracting high-wage jobs while simultaneously investing in our existing communities to ensure that rising tides lift all boats. She has been a strong advocate for small businesses, realizing they are the backbone of our local economy.
Abuzuaiter has articulated a comprehensive plan for public safety that moves beyond simple soundbites. She supports fully funding our police and fire departments while also emphasizing crucial community-based violence intervention programs and mental health resources. Her approach is rooted in the belief that strong, safe neighborhoods require both visible protection and underlying social support.
In short, Marikay Abuzuaiter is the experienced, steady, and unifying voice that Greensboro needs in the mayor’s office right now. She offers a clear path forward built on smart growth, fiscal responsibility, and community engagement.
Vote Marikay Abuzuaiter for Mayor of Greensboro.
Carolina Peacemaker Editorial Staff – Afrique I. Kilimanjaro and Gabriel Fraire.
