Power To The People: Mount Vernon Residents Step Up and Speak Out At Open Mic Rally On Steps Of City Hall
On Saturday, May 2nd, at 1 p.m., the steps of Mount Vernon City Hall became a stage for the people, as dozens gathered to speak on issues they say can no longer be ignored. Alongside calls for accountability and change, there was also a strong show of support for MVPD Officer Derek Williams—turning the afternoon into both a protest and a moment of solidarity.
This grassroots gathering was more than just an event—it was a moment for the people to be heard. With concerns ranging from police accountability and rising property taxes to education, parking, and overall quality of life, organizers created an open mic forum where residents could speak directly on the issues impacting their daily lives. In a city where many feel answers have been delayed or ignored, this speak-out shaped up to be a powerful opportunity for the community to come together, demand transparency, and reclaim its voice.
See full video of rally below…
“Thanks to all who could be in attendance today, asking our residents to be more involved in our dire need for accountability from our Mayor and City Council. Time to open their eyes and see the concerns of the taxpayers and concerned citizens. No more leading with blinders on. All departments in this city need a Forensic Audit !! And I’m working on it,” Jesse Van Lew shared with Black Westchester after the rally.
Efforts to revise the Mount Vernon City Charter for the 2026 ballot were also underway, driven by proponents seeking to modernize city government, with some advocating for a city manager form of government. To place a charter amendment directly on the ballot, advocates had a table at the rally to gather the significant number of signatures needed.
The rally featured a diverse lineup of voices from across the community, each bringing their own perspective to the issues at hand. Speakers included Co-Founder of the Mount Vernon Civic Integrity Project Axel Ebermann, Geoff Munroe (Bounubti Kamenthou), John Gallagher, Greg Bonaparte, Co-founder of Westchester for Palestine Hadil Sarrar, Library Advocate Tamara Stewart, Public Interest Advocate Ayanna Armstrong, MVPD Officer Derek Williams, retired MVPD Officer Donald Moore, Dr. Cassandra Hyacinthe, Damon K. Jones (Blacks In Law Enforcement & BW Publisher), and Save Mount Vernon co-founder Jesse Van Lew. From calls for accountability to concerns about quality of life and public safety, the message was consistent—residents are demanding answers and meaningful change. The event closed on a unifying note as Ms. Thomas led the crowd in prayer, grounding the afternoon not only in advocacy but in community and hope.
“As Barack Obama once said, ‘We are the change that we seek.’ Together, let’s bring back meaning to Mount Vernon and truly make it the City of Hope,” Public Interest Advocate Ayanna Armstrong shared with Black Westchester after the rally.
