United We Rise: Town Hall Aims to Rally Columbus Around Shared Vision for 2026 and Beyond

Amid mounting political challenges and growing divisions, a movement is taking root in Columbus with a clear and powerful message: united, we rise.

On Thursday, April 17, a town hall meeting will be held at the Page-Doleman Complex, 718 8th St., from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., to explore where the community goes from here—and how it can do so together.

Columbus Georgia United is not a traditional organization. It is a growing movement aimed at transforming how residents approach the 2026 elections and beyond. As calls for unity grow louder, local leaders are urging residents to embrace a shared agenda focused on political representation, accountability and grassroots empowerment.

Key civic institutions—including the Columbus chapter of the NAACP and the Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance—are aligning with the initiative. They warn that ongoing division, particularly in crowded local elections where multiple candidates split votes, only weakens the community’s collective power.

“While anyone has the right to run for office, we also have a right and responsibility to be strategic,” said the Rev. Johnnie Flakes III, president of the IMA. “This is about ensuring our leaders reflect our values, understand our issues and are prepared to govern with integrity.”

At the heart of the movement is a call for a structured, community-led vetting process. The goal is to identify and support ethical, capable and visionary candidates who are deeply rooted in the needs of the people they seek to represent.

Columbus Georgia United is developing a framework to train and mentor future public servants. Their strategy emphasizes policy education, grassroots engagement and leadership development—focusing far beyond the ballot box.

“Leadership isn’t just about holding office—it’s about serving communities, solving real problems and inspiring progress,” said Melvin Tanner Jr., president of the Columbus branch of the NAACP.

The group’s mission includes breaking down barriers to political participation, ensuring elected officials are held accountable and preparing leaders to serve with clarity and purpose from day one.

Collaboration is central to the movement’s strategy. Organizers are partnering with longstanding institutions that have championed civil rights and equity for decades. By leveraging those networks and promoting a unified message, they believe Columbus can reshape its political future.

“Our strength lies in our ability to come together, speak with one voice and push for policies that uplift all of Columbus,” said Bennie Newroth, a spokesperson for Columbus Georgia United.

As the 2026 election cycle draws near, Columbus Georgia United is making its message clear: this moment calls for more than candidates. It calls for commitment, clarity and coordination.

“Divided, we’re diluted. But united, we are unstoppable.”