In this enlightening episode, we sit down with Elizabeth Wilson, the first female mayor of Decatur, Georgia, to explore her remarkable journey from the Allen Wilson Terrace Apartments to a position of leadership in local government. Elizabeth shares her early experiences growing up in the projects and reflects on her transition to power, offering insights into the challenges she faced along the way.

We delve into her pivotal role on the Decatur City Commission during the tumultuous 1960s, as she fought for desegregation in public schools and libraries. Elizabeth discusses the painful legacy of urban renewal projects in the Beacon Community, which displaced hundreds of families, and her thoughts on the city’s evolving demographics and cultural landscape.

Join us as we examine the changing perception of public housing and community identity in Decatur, and listen to Elizabeth’s candid reflections on what went wrong during the era of displacement. We also touch on contemporary issues and conclude with her thoughts on Kamala Harris as she makes history on her path to becoming a potential first Black female president.

Click play for a powerful conversation that highlights the resilience of community and the importance of leadership in the face of adversity.