Atlanta’s Mayor, Andre Dickens, received backlash after advising a constituent, Jonathan Brimer, to “shut up” regarding voter-approved transit and safety projects. The exchange took place after Dickens shared a video on Instagram of his visit with Nature Gurlz, a group encouraging outdoor activities among Black women in Atlanta.
Brimer’s response to the post sought clarity on transportation priorities. He suggested restoring Peachtree Street’s pedestrian design and delivering the Beltline rail project funded by sales taxes for MARTA. Dickens’ reply emphasized respecting Atlanta’s Black women residents.
“Shut up and respect our legacy Black women residents that made this city that you get to enjoy freely,” Dickens replied.
Brimer expressed surprise at the mayor’s unexpected and abrupt response. He clarified his comment targeted transportation policies, not the women highlighted in Dickens’ video. A spokesperson for the mayor’s office declined to confirm if Dickens personally made the comment or planned to issue an apology.
The criticism centered on the Peachtree Street project, planned for $4.85 million, which includes protected bike lanes and safer crossings, with construction slated between 2027 and 2029. Brimer also discussed the More MARTA project funded by a 2016 sales tax. Work on the Streetcar East Extension halted at 30% design in 2025 as priorities were reassessed.
Brimer’s inquiries extended to the overall plan for enhancing Atlanta’s public transportation and connectivity. This interaction has affected his support for Mayor Dickens’ administration.
In related developments, Mayor Dickens criticized Democratic Party leaders in a letter to the DNC after Atlanta lost the bid to host the 2028 Democratic National Convention. Dickens accused the party of disregarding Atlanta and its Black voter base.
The DNC’s shortlist for convention sites includes Boston, Denver, and Philadelphia. The organization cited factors like arena size, hotel capacity, and local partnerships in its decision-making process. The final venue selection is awaited, with positive remarks from DNC Chairman Ken Martin on the strength of the remaining cities’ bids.