Council President Pro Tempore LaTonya A. Tate

Today, I was honored to host a press conference in observance of National Gun Violence Awareness Day and to present a proclamation officially recognizing June as Gun Violence Awareness Month.

As Chair of Public Safety, one of my greatest responsibilities is working to ensure that every resident feels safe in their neighborhood, every child has the opportunity to grow up free from the fear of violence, and every family can thrive in a community where peace is prioritized. Addressing violence requires more than a single solution. It takes collaboration, prevention, intervention, accountability, and investment in the people and neighborhoods most affected. We must continue supporting efforts that provide resources, mentorship, education, mental health support, and opportunities that help prevent violence before it occurs.
Mayor Randall Woodfin also shared heartfelt remarks about the impact gun violence continues to have on Birmingham families and communities, reminding us why this work remains so important

I am grateful to everyone who joined us today in standing united for safer neighborhoods and stronger communities.
A special thank you to the Urban League of Alabama, Dr. David Hicks of the Jefferson County Department of Health, Sheree Kennon of What About Us, Judge Janine Hunt-Hilliard  of the Jefferson County Family Court, and the Offender Alumni Association for sharing their voices, and commitment to violence prevention. .bham

Today, I had the opportunity to attend the ribbon cutting for the new ARMS Behavioral Health and Wellness Center right here in District 9.

Mental health is an important part of overall health, and I am proud to see this investment being made in our community. This new facility will help expand access to critical behavioral health services, including therapy, case management, substance abuse support, medication management, and other resources for individuals and families who need them most.

I am especially grateful to have been able to support this project by helping provide financial resources toward something that is so greatly needed in our community. Investing in behavioral health means investing in healthier individuals, stronger families, and a stronger Birmingham.
Thank you to Dr. Ted Greer, Jr., the ARMS team, healthcare partners, community leaders, and everyone who helped make this vision a reality. I am excited to see the positive impact this center will have on District 9 and communities across Birmingham for years to come.

As your Birmingham City Councilor and Chair of Public Safety, I want to encourage residents across our communities to make their voices heard during tomorrow’s Alabama Primary Election.
Voting is one of the many ways we stay engaged in the future of our communities and continue participating in conversations surrounding the issues that impact our neighborhoods, families, and city every day. I encourage residents to make a plan, know their polling location, and take part in the election process tomorrow, May 19, 2026.

Your voice matters, and community engagement continues to play an important role in helping move Birmingham and Alabama forward.

Save the Date!

Join us for the HEAL the BLOCK Community Healing & Unity Event on Saturday, August 1st from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM at 1200 Tuscaloosa Avenue. This event is all about bringing the community together through resources and connection.
Come out and enjoy free food and refreshments, health screenings, community vendors, youth and family-friendly activities, and the distribution of essential items and supplies. Bring your family, invite a friend, and be part of a meaningful day focused on uplifting and strengthening our community. we need you there!

Happy Mother’s Day to all the incredible mothers of District 9 and beyond! Your strength and unwavering dedication help build stronger families, and thriving communities. Thank you for the countless sacrifices you make, the love you give so freely, and the inspiration you provide every day. Today we celebrate you — for your resilience and your nurturing spirit. Wishing you a day filled with love, joy, and the appreciation you truly deserve.

I’m proud to recognize National Teacher Appreciation Week and the educators who help shape safe, strong communities every day. Beyond the classroom, teachers are mentors, role models, and trusted voices who guide our youth toward positive paths. Thank you for your dedication, your impact, and your unwavering commitment to our future.

I’m glad I had the opportunity to attend this Community Engagement Workshop sponsored by Senator Linda Coleman-Madison in partnership with Renew Birmingham. It was an impactful event centered on empowering residents through civic education, leadership development, and understanding how we can all play a role in creating positive change in our communities.

From learning about government structure and how decisions are made, to discussing action planning and solutions, this workshop provided valuable tools for turning concern into action.

I was truly honored to have served as a judge for the HBCU Cares Pitch Competition at Workplay. I had the opportunity to hear inspiring pitches from the next generation of innovators and creators making their mark across agriculture, technology, and health & beauty.
It was powerful to witness these students bring their ideas to life and share solutions with real impact for their communities.

Congratulations to the winners—4GRD, Alabama Black Farmers Collective, and Hair Harmony. Great job to everyone who participated and keep up the great work.

Today’s Community Fair & Giveaway at Bethel Missionary Baptist Church was a truly uplifting event! I’m grateful to have been a part of such a meaningful day centered around service and community care. Families were able to enjoy food distribution services, opportunities for free health screening, a kids play zone, prayer tent, face painting, dance classes, free lunch, and so much more!
Events like this are a powerful reminder of what it means to give back, making sure families have access to valuable resources, support, and opportunities that strengthen the community.