Letter to the editor: Gainey for Pittsburgh mayor

The first time I met state Rep. Ed Gainey was in 2019 at a community event in the Hill District. He came up to my table, and we talked about chess, my run for school board, and my studies at Pitt. He said if I ever needed anything, I should call him. Then he gave me his cellphone number, and said, “I’m always here if you need anything.”

That’s who he is. He cares so deeply about every person he meets. Any politician can say they care about the community, but not every politician will show up, be responsive and give out his or her cellphone number. Gainey is not afraid to come to community events by himself, engage in conversations with every single person there and do work not for show, but because he wants to make an impact.

For 21 years, I grew up watching East Liberty become gentrified, school systems failing and the divides between neighborhood groups grow larger. I watched Black communities continue to become marginalized, young people fleeing this city because they don’t feel valued, and police being put on pedestals. Enough is enough.

Gainey wants Pittsburgh to be a city for all. He admits when he doesn’t know everything and isn’t afraid to bring in the experts to help solve problems. He has strong relationships with the school board and will ensure Pittsburgh Public Schools are top tier. He is committed to the region, and I’m proud to be voting for Ed Gainey on May 18.

Ashley Lynn Priore

Shadyside