Today we’d like to introduce you to Imani Barnes.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
After George Floyd was murdered, I wanted to know how my city council would address the current events. When I searched for the Tucker City Council meeting’s agenda online, I saw the city council members’ photos. None of them were people of Color. At that moment and after attending many council meetings, I decided to run for city council.
I have a love for scientific research and have been working in biomedical research for over 18 years. 13.5 of those years, I have worked as a research scientist at Emory University. I earned my BS in biology and chemistry, my master’s degree in public health, and am a public health PhD candidate working on my last classes.
I am Imani Barnes, a Public Health professional, youth development coach and parent advocate. I want to serve as Tucker’s District 2 Post 1 City Council member because I recognize the need for inclusion on the council that reflects the interests of Tucker’s families, businesses, and underserved populations. We deserve leadership that can relate to the needs of our growing community and will articulate those concerns to obtain quantifiable results. Nearly 50% of Tucker’s population is composed of persons of ethnic origin, yet the city has yet to support heritage celebrations on behalf of its citizens.
Considering that 18% of those that call Tucker home are under the age of 18, it is unfortunate that there are few outlets to engage this demographic outside of athletic activities. Though 63% of residents own their homes, the remaining 47% are burdened with the inflated cost of living associated with lack of affordable housing. As a woman of color and member of the LGBTQ community, I empathize with citizens’ concerns and understand that the success of Tucker’s future depends on inclusion of the unique heritage of our residents.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
This road has been smooth as a train track missing tracks. No, it definitely takes willpower, but no matter what, I won’t quit! People don’t see the behind the scenes when there are nights I get 2 hours of sleep because I’m writing a paper for school, or the times when I break down and cry because at that time, I’m just overwhelmed. I pray, ask for strength, and keep it moving! The struggle of being new to politics, the struggle of finding the time to conquer all that I am working on, and the struggle to still find “me time” is the hard part.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I work in biomedical research with some of the world’s most renowned research scientists at Emory University where I have been for the last 13.5 years. I also started and own I Can Become Anything, LLC where I develop teens in our community to reach their goals and dreams through developmental and inspiration classes. Lastly, I am jumping into Tucker’s city council race because I have a voice that can represent the underrepresented in our city.
What would you say have been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
That no matter the struggle, it will be worth the testimony once you conquer what you set out to do! Don’t give up along the way b/c nothing worth having is easy to acquire.
Contact Info:
- Email: joinarmswithbarnes@gmail.com
- Website: joinarmswithbarnes.com
- Instagram: @barnesfortucker
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JoinarmsBarnes and @ImaniBarnes
Image Credits:
B. Mars Photography
