OPEN LETTER TO GOVERNOR KEMP AND MAYOR ANDRE DICKENS

We represent an interfaith coalition of ministerial leaders across Georgia who have
convened in response to reports regarding plans to deploy the Georgia National Guard
to Atlanta. We respectfully oppose efforts to militarize our communities under the pretext
of public safety.
We are concerned that such actions, observed in democratic municipalities nationwide,
may disproportionately impact certain populations. These measures, in our view, risk
diverting attention from pressing policy issues, current economic challenges, bipartisan
requests for greater transparency, and broader questions about national leadership.
Assertions of widespread crime in these cities appear inconsistent with verified data.
According to recent FBI crime statistics, both statewide and local crime rates have
declined during your tenure. Atlanta experienced a notable decrease in total crime in
2024, with violent crime falling by 10.5% and property crime by 5%. Notable reductions
include a national murder rate drop of 14.9%, a 5.1% decrease in Georgia homicides,
and a 32% reduction in carjackings. The data do not support claims of a crime wave in
Georgia; however, gun violence remains a significant concern across states of all
political affiliations.
While we recognize that every incident of violence is serious, it is clear that
evidence-based policies—many of which are being reconsidered—have contributed to
the progress reflected in these statistics. We note with concern the withholding of
federal funding designated to address crime in our city and state, as these resources
are crucial for sustaining and enhancing public safety achievements throughout
Georgia.
Atlanta, as the birthplace of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., played a pivotal role in the Civil
Rights Movement. As faith leaders, we urge you to uphold the rights of all Georgians
and resist efforts to create unrest. We ask you to stand firm against any attempts to
militarize our streets or undermine democratic principles.
As you have already demonstrated courageous and non-partisan leadership in the face
of great backlash and retaliation, we call on that same spirit of protector-and-chief of the
State of Georgia, to do what you know is right. In times that require great moral
courage, we ask you to stand on behalf of the citizens of Georgia.

If these conditions are not met, we plan to organize in response, following the tradition
of nonviolent resistance established in this city. We oppose the deployment of troops in
urban areas and consider it an inappropriate solution to current circumstances.

Interfaith Coalition is asking all faith leaders in the state of Georgia to stand with us by siging this letter. Give your name, title and city you serve.