29/10/2025
Neighbors, a lot has been said about Downtown in the last 24 hours, and I love those standing up and showing their Downtown pride! Allow me to add: I know we have an 'unsafe perception' problem, and I know our community isn't crime-free. But 38103 is, in fact, one of the safest, friendliest, coolest damn zip codes in this city! Full of all types of new businesses, iconic neighborhood staples that have been around for decades, tons of music, rooftop bars, theaters, and other unique experiences you can't get anywhere else - GO GRIZZ! MPD has worked so hard with the help of the TN Troopers and Sheriff's office to help take back our downtown from those who come to do harm and run amok. And that work shouldn't be disregarded or forgotten. We have come a long way in the last few years and have more work to do, but I believe in our community and its allies.
I also know this about the 901: When things we love in Memphis come under attack or get painted in a bad light, Memphis shows up - we lock arms, and we push back! Take the movements around the greensward, saving the aquifer, or shutting down a pipeline in south Memphis as just a few examples. And right now, Memphis' front porch - our DOWNTOWN - needs us all to show up and support it. Downtown is, in fact, our city's front porch, and a front porch is where neighbors gather with other neighbors and build trust and community and camaraderie. Let's all show downtown and its small businesses and large businesses alike how much we all love and support them. I know if we fight back, speak up, and stand up against ridiculous rhetoric and those who try to paint downtown in a negative light, our community will flourish to new heights.
