Growing up, the streetlights in our neighborhood provided not just illumination but safety. My brother and I could explore our surroundings without fear, knowing that the golden glow from the streetlights would always guide us home once the sun set. This is a luxury not everyone in Henry County has, as the current state of public lighting displays a stark difference along socioeconomic lines.

Everyone deserves the right to safety and security in their neighborhoods, regardless of their socio-economic status. Public lighting should be a fundamental right, not a branch of privilege, and this disparity needs to be addressed. Increased public lighting is crucial in creating safer, more prosperous, and equitable communities, especially within the least funded areas of our county.

Darker areas attract crime. According to a 2016 study by the American Medical Association, areas with poor lighting have an increased incidence of violent crimes by 21% compared to well-lit areas. By improving and increasing public lighting, we can drastically improve safety, stimulate economic development, and level the social equity terrain in the county.

Let's urge our local, state, and federal government to invest in meaningful changes, to light up every corner of Henry County. Your signature can be the light in the dark for others. Please sign this petition.