By Staff
What makes a great leader?
When thinking of a leader, a couple of characteristics come to mind:
- Confidence: Having the ability to take pride in decisions while inspiring others to trust and have faith to follow their lead
- Vision: A leader must have the vision to provide a way forward. Even if all the answers aren’t there, a leader must surround themselves with people who are able to provide such strengths.
- Empathy: Understanding and caring for the needs and concerns of others, fostering a positive environment
- Continuous Learning: Embracing growth at every point in life, understanding that being open to new ideas and opportunities is essential to staying effective and relevant.
How important is it that African Americans participate in politics, and why?
Active participation in politics is crucial for African Americans. It helps them to make their voice heard and ensures that elected officials address their concerns. This is especially important given the African American community’s numerous challenges, including systemic racism, discrimination, and inequality in areas such as education, employment, and healthcare. By participating in politics, African Americans can work towards a more just and equitable society for all and bring about positive change.
What issue have you found yourself willing to advocate and why?
Housing: Having a place to call home is a fundamental right that every individual should have. As a community, we must ensure this opportunity is available to everyone. Adequate housing not only impacts people’s health, well-being, and quality of life but is also crucial for personal and economic stability. It is particularly essential for African Americans, who may face housing discrimination and struggle to find safe and affordable homes. Therefore, access to affordable housing is vital for creating a fair and just society.
LGBTQIA+: LGBTQIA individuals face discrimination and marginalization throughout many facets of life. From employment, healthcare, housing, and even as humans, LGBTQIA individuals are a constant target by society. Everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect and provided the opportunity to have a seat at the table regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. Creating a more inclusive and accepting society is paramount to ensuring equality.
Tell us about the experience when you found your voice.
I found my voice during the time when police violence started to show its face throughout our communities. I felt it was important to stand up for a community often left out and marginalized. Understanding that legislators’ thoughts and prayers weren’t enough, and that policy change is one of the only effective means to change our community. I ran for office to challenge the status quo in my community, Franklin, TN. I knocked on doors to educate residents about the importance of their voices. I showed up to every Alderman meeting, ensuring that our Legislators were representing us and not special interest. We are all we got.
How important is mentorship? Tell us about one of your experiences.
Mentorship plays a pivotal role in establishing a strong foundation for nurturing future leaders. A mentor’s role extends beyond providing guidance, advice, and support; they serve as living exemplars of triumphs and setbacks. Moreover, mentorship serves as a compass, guiding individuals through the intricate terrain of life and work. It’s a testament to the unwavering trust and faith that others have in one’s potential, recognizing that, like a diamond, pressure is necessary to reveal the brilliance within. Throughout my career, I had people in place who constantly challenged me and gave me all the tools necessary to achieve and thrive while also not wavering in letting me fall and learning from my mistakes. Having them in place was effective when making decisions, but it was also empowering to know that greatness is never too far to achieve.
What does success look like for you?
Success is a constantly shifting and dynamic notion. Personally, I believe I’ve truly excelled when I find myself in positions of influence that enable me to uplift marginalized and underserved communities. It’s about creating opportunities and empowering Black individuals, affirming their worth and potential independently. It’s the ability to wield political capital and foster growth in communities that have long yearned for opportunity. When I see these changes materialize, I know I’ve reached a meaningful level of success.
Where would you like to see your career in the next five years?
Over the next five years, my goal is to pursue a political career in my local community. My aim is to implement the ideas I have advocated for and serve as an efficient leader in creating a fairer and more equitable community for everyone.
About
As a dedicated businessman and compassionate humanitarian, Howard Garrett brings a distinctive blend of insight, unwavering faith, and an inspiring work ethic to his community. Howard’s roots trace back to a large, close-knit family in Middle Tennessee, instilling in him the values of family and giving back. With a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from MTSU and a Master’s degree in Biblical and Theological Studies from Trevecca Nazarene, his educational journey laid the foundation for a life of purpose.
From a young age, Howard felt a calling to serve others, extending his ministry beyond conventional church boundaries to touch lives within the community. As a gospel minister, he strives to uplift marginalized communities, recognizing that everyone deserves a fair shot at a brighter future.
Howard’s mission revolves around empowering, educating, and providing resources to enable his community to lead self-sufficient lives. He’s actively engaged in various roles, serving on the DC State Executive Committee as a Board Member, National Committeeman for DC Young Dems, and as a dedicated member of the Rotary of Dupont Circle.
Driven by his own transformative journey, Howard is resolutely committed to inspiring and instilling confidence in those who may feel misplaced in a community that they, too, call home.
