My name is Byron Davis, and I am a progressive Democrat running for the position of state representative in the 198th District of Philadelphia.
The 198th District is one of the most economically and geographically diverse districts in the entire state of Pennsylvania. It encompasses the neighborhoods of Logan, Nicetown, Germantown, East Falls, West Mt. Airy and Chestnut Hill. It boasts multi-million dollar mansions in the upper part of the district and garbage-strewn vacant lots on the other. Our district is a metaphor for society itself as displayed by the disparities, unfulfilled hopes and promise of communities that have not been represented and united over the past 14 years of the current incumbent’s unremarkable tenure.
Our district deserves better, and after much reflection and discussion with my family, I have decided to do what many talk about, but few actually do: to lead and serve. And in committing to this campaign for the office of state representative, I seek this office not as a stepping-stone to still higher office, but in recognition of this opportunity as a high honor and distinct privilege to serve communities in which I live, work and have chosen to raise a family. Early on, I learned that a strong community can transform individuals’ lives.
Indeed, I am living proof of the hopes, dreams and reforms made possible by those who sacrificed so much for my generation, my daughters’ generation and generations to come.
As a history teacher and someone who did not grow up with privilege, having been raised by a single mother in public housing, I do not take this commitment lightly, and approach this challenge with much reverence, given the sacrifices made by preceding generations so that I and others could do what once was unthinkable.
I was born in the same year that the landmark Voting Rights Act of 1965 was passed by Congress due to the tireless and courageous efforts of the freedom-fighters of the Civil Rights Movement.
Along the way our communities and the institutions that serve them have faltered at times. But with a renewed commitment to service, responsibility and opportunity, we can unlock the door to a brighter tomorrow.
