(Washington D.C.) September 29, 2023 – The African American Mayors Association (AAMA) is calling on Washington to come to a swift resolution to the pending government shutdown, and hold extreme House Republicans accountable in coming to an agreement. Cities rely on a federal government that functions to meet the needs of their citizens, and fund essential programs including public housing, community programs, and federal grants.

“Our cities and constituents deserve better than to have politics and divisiveness in Washington affecting their quality of life,” said AAMA President and Mount Vernon Mayor Shawyn Patterson-Howard. “This march to a shutdown puts Americans at risk. We’re calling for a swift resolution to this pending shutdown that focuses on the needs of the American people.”

A government shutdown would threaten vital nutrition assistance for nearly 7 million mothers and children, endanger disaster response, and limit access to government loans, among other distressing impacts to millions of Americans.  It would put active troops without paychecks at risk, delay food safety inspections and jeopardize airports. Mayors in our cities need their federal partners active, engaged and intact in order to effectively serve their residents. AAMA urges House Republicans to set aside any differences, honor the agreement, and focus squarely on the needs of the American people.

###

The African American Mayors Association (AAMA) is the only organization dedicated to representing over 500 African American mayors across the United States. AAMA seeks to empower local leaders for the benefit of their citizens. The role of the AAMA includes taking positions on public policies that impact the vitality and sustainability of cities; providing mayors with leadership and management tools; and creating a forum for member mayors to share best practices related to municipal management.