Mustafa Santiago Ali
Dr. Mustafa Santiago Ali is the Executive Vice President of Conservation & Justice for the National Wildlife Federation (NWF), former Interim Chief of Programs at the Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS), and Instructor at American University. He is the Founder and CEO of Revitalization Strategies. He also serves as a commissioner for The American Academy of Arts and Sciences (AAAS). He is an award-winning writer and poet focused on social justice. Dr. Ali is frequently seen on television, including appearances on MSNBC, ABC, CBS, NBC, CNN, VICE, FUSE, BET, National Geographic, Full Frontal with Samantha Bee, and Democracy NOW! Mustafa is also a regular guest on Roland Martin Unfiltered, Black News Channel, Tavis Smiley Show, The Dean Obeidallah Show, and many others…
Editor's Note: This poem is the tenth in our Democracy and Hope Series. This series will highlight hopeful aspects about our Democracy using various genres including poems, interviews, short stories, and articles about political event
In the heart of the Midwest, from Nebraska's plains, Tim Walz’s journey, etched in America’s veins. A tale of fields, classrooms, and battle’s call, Legislative halls where duty stands tall.
Born of the heartland, his roots deep in soil, Married with love, his life a mosaic, royal. Two children’s laughter, twenty-four years in guard, Command Sergeant Major, a life profoundly hard.
In high school halls, as teacher and coach, Molding young minds with integrity’s approach. Lessons of resilience, in quiet classrooms shared, Just as he led soldiers, with the same care.
From classrooms to Congress, six terms strong, Two terms as Governor, where he belongs. Moderate Democrat, bridging the divide, Unity and purpose, his compass, his guide.
In education’s realm, his passion’s clear, Increased funding, ensuring futures near. Pre-K programs, early childhood’s embrace, Free meals for all, no hunger to face.
Healthcare’s battleground, where efforts shine, Affordable access, mental health aligned. Stabilizing markets, reducing costs, Compassionate governance, never lost.
Infrastructure’s backbone, his focus keen, Roads, bridges, transit, all seen. Broadband in rural, connectivity’s thread, Economic growth, opportunities spread.
Environmental steward, climate action’s voice, Greenhouse reduction, clean energy’s choice. Carbon neutrality, ambitious goals set, Sustainable future, in his debt.
Social justice, equality’s stand, Police reform, in George Floyd’s land. Accountability, transparency’s might, Racial equity, disparities fight.
Economic realm, job creation’s flare, Workforce development, growth to share. Agriculture’s champion, sustainable ways, Minnesota’s farmers, in prosperous days.
Tim Walz, more than politician’s mask, A leader, in service, no return to ask. Kamala’s choice, with heart’s compassion, Vision for future, in unified fashion.
A testament of love, unwavering, pure, Dedication to country, service secure. In Tim Walz, find spirit of public grace, Giving all he has, for a brighter place.
©️MustafaSantiagoAli
#Poetry #ProudBlue #TimWalz #KamalaHarris2024