About the GRA 

The Georgia Rights Assembly is a powerful coalition of 15 chairmen from various regions across Georgia, each representing different communities and perspectives within the state. This assembly operates as a central hub for discussing and shaping policies related to civil rights, social justice, and economic fairness. With the significant influence it wields, the assembly’s decisions are not only capable of impacting state legislation but, at times, can also shape national conversations and laws. These chairmen are leaders in their respective communities, chosen for their deep understanding of regional issues and their commitment to advocating for equitable policies that benefit all Georgians.

The assembly convenes regularly to address a wide range of issues, focusing on both immediate needs and long-term policy shifts. Each meeting typically includes presentations from experts, testimonials from citizens affected by relevant issues, and proposals from advocacy groups. Together, the chairmen deliberate on pressing concerns that affect their communities, such as:

  1. Voting Rights and Democratic Access:
    The assembly prioritizes voting rights, especially in light of recent legislative changes in Georgia that have drawn national attention. The chairmen work to ensure that voting remains accessible to all eligible citizens, with particular attention to minority communities that have historically faced barriers at the polls. They discuss and propose measures to counter voter suppression, advocate for expanded early voting, and seek to preserve the integrity of Georgia’s elections.

  2. Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Reform:
    Recognizing the urgent need for criminal justice reform, the assembly examines policies to reduce systemic racial biases and promote fair treatment in Georgia's legal system. The chairmen review current practices and support reforms that increase transparency and accountability, such as community oversight boards and requirements for body-worn cameras for law enforcement. They also advocate for alternative sentencing programs aimed at reducing recidivism and promoting rehabilitation over punishment.

  3. Education and School Funding Equity:
    Education is another cornerstone of the assembly's work, particularly concerning the disparities in school funding and resource allocation across Georgia. The chairmen aim to ensure that students in all areas, from urban Atlanta to rural Georgia, have access to quality education. They focus on policies that address the achievement gap, increase funding for underserved schools, and support equitable distribution of educational resources across the state.

  4. Healthcare Access and Mental Health Services:
    The assembly considers healthcare a fundamental right, advocating for expanded access to services across Georgia, particularly in rural and economically disadvantaged areas. The chairmen debate issues like Medicaid expansion and push for comprehensive mental health services, understanding that healthcare is essential to the well-being and productivity of Georgia’s communities. They aim to influence legislation that could reduce healthcare disparities and improve the availability of both physical and mental health care statewide.

  5. Economic Equity and Affordable Housing:
    Economic justice is a recurring theme in the assembly, especially with the rise in housing costs in urban areas like Atlanta. The chairmen propose measures to support affordable housing developments and to prevent displacement due to gentrification. They work with policymakers to explore rent stabilization, financial assistance for low-income families, and incentives for developers to prioritize affordable housing projects, understanding that secure housing is key to building stable communities.

  6. Environmental Justice and Clean Energy Initiatives:
    Environmental justice, especially for communities disproportionately affected by pollution and industrialization, is a critical focus of the assembly. The chairmen examine how environmental hazards affect low-income neighborhoods and communities of color, often advocating for policies to reduce pollution and transition to clean energy. They collaborate with environmental groups to propose statewide initiatives that promote sustainability and protect Georgia’s natural resources.

As these 15 chairmen deliberate, they make recommendations that can directly influence state legislation. Many of their proposals find champions among Georgia's lawmakers, who bring these issues to the state legislature. In some cases, the assembly's efforts capture national attention, setting precedents that may influence federal policies. By combining grassroots perspectives with state-level advocacy, the Georgia Rights Assembly seeks to build a more just, equitable, and inclusive future for all Georgians, making it one of the state’s most impactful bodies for social change.