Town Hall Highlights Launch of “Columbus, Georgia United” Movement

Grassroots coalition calls for unity, accountability, and new leadership ahead of 2026 elections

By Wane A. Hailes
COLUMBUS, Ga. — A packed room of community members gathered Thursday evening at the Page-Doleman Complex to take part in what organizers called a turning point for political engagement in Columbus. The town hall, hosted by the Columbus Branch of the NAACP and the Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance (IMA), marked the official launch of Columbus, Georgia United—a grassroots movement aimed at transforming how local residents prepare for the 2026 elections and beyond.

“This is not just about what’s happening to our community—it’s about what’s possible for our community,” Rev. Johnny Flakes, III president of the IMA told the crowd. “The challenges we face can’t be solved by standing apart. They demand that we stand together.”

The meeting opened with calls for unity in the face of rising political division, underrepresentation, and a lack of accountability from current elected leaders. Organizers stressed the need for collective action, strategy, and a shared vision to strengthen political representation and community power.

“The Columbus, Georgia United initiative is not a political organization, Melvin Tanner, Jr president of the Columbus branch NAACP said, but a people-powered movement focused on cultivating ethical, community-rooted leadership. Its stated mission includes identifying and mentoring new candidates, providing leadership training and policy education, and holding current officials accountable to the people they serve.”

Attendees nodded in agreement as speakers highlighted a long-standing issue in local politics: too many candidates from the same community running for the same seat, splitting the vote and diluting their collective impact.

“Fragmentation has cost us too much,” said Marquese Averett. “We are done fighting each other when we should be fighting for each other.”

To address this, the movement intends to build a pipeline of leaders who reflect the diversity, challenges, and hopes of Columbus. Organizers emphasized that this movement would rely on trusted community institutions—including churches, civic organizations, and neighborhood groups—to spread a consistent message, centralize communication, and coordinate strategic action.

“Power without a plan is just potential going to waste,” Wane A. Hailes publisher of the Courier Eco Latino Newspaper said, drawing applause from the crowd.

Throughout the evening, community members were encouraged to get involved—whether by helping spread the word, attending training sessions, or stepping forward as potential candidates or volunteers.

“This is bigger than one election,” said another participant. “This is about creating a culture of accountability and leadership that lasts beyond 2026.”

The event closed on a note of solidarity, with a clear message: the future of Columbus won’t be handed down—it will be built from the ground up, by those willing to unite and lead with purpose.

“When we move together, we make history,” Edward DuBose national NAACP board member declared. “And tonight, we choose to move forward—together.”