By State Representatives Sandra Scott (D-Rex), Viola Davis (D-Stone Mountain) and Kim Schofield (D-Atlanta)
(514 words)
On September 12, 2023, the McIntosh County Board of Commissioners made a decision that left many of us deeply disappointed. Despite opposition from local residents, commissioners voted in favor of a zoning proposal that threatens the very heart and soul of Hogg Hammock on Sapelo Island. This decision has ignited a fire within the Gullah Geechee community, and it is a call to action that cannot be ignored.
At the heart of this issue is the preservation of Hogg Hammock, a place rich in history and culture, and home to the descendants of enslaved people like Bilali Muhammad, a historic Islamic scholar who played a crucial role in shaping American Islam. This island has been a sanctuary, a place where generations have thrived and where a unique culture has been persevered. Now, it is under threat, and the people must stand together to protect their land.
The zoning proposal, which aims to more than double permissible home sizes on the island, would have severe consequences for the residents of Hogg Hammock. Property taxes would skyrocket, potentially driving indigenous landowners away from their ancestral homes. This is not just a matter of zoning; it is a matter of survival for a community that has faced discrimination and attempts at wiping out its history.
On September 7, 2023, during a McIntosh County Planning and Zoning Commission meeting, more than 200 community members, along with state legislators, faith leaders, attorneys from the Southern Poverty Law Center, community activists and representatives from The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Georgia), stood united against the proposal. Despite public sentiment, county commissioners voted in favor of the proposal just a few days later.
Transparency and openness in government are fundamental to our democracy, yet the decision by the McIntosh County Sheriff to prohibit recording certain hearings, including the county commission meeting on September 11, 2023, raises concerns about violations of the Open Meetings Act. Therefore, we must insist on transparency and accountability in all government proceedings, especially when they affect the lives and futures of our communities.
For the Gullah Geechee community on Sapelo Island, this fight is about preserving a way of life, cultural heritage and the land that has sustained generations. We must stand together and fight for the Gullah Geechee community.
However, the challenges facing the Gullah Geechee community on Sapelo Island extend far beyond zoning. Inadequate transportation, limited job opportunities and a lack of essential services like emergency response and trash collection have plagued the community for far too long. These issues must be addressed, and it’s time for the people of Hogg Hammock to receive the respect and support they deserve as taxpayers and citizens.
Representative Sandra Scott first started to fight for the people of Hogg Hammock 13 years ago. As legislators, we pledge to stand up, speak out and support the Gullah Geechee community on Sapelo Island. We call on everyone who values justice, heritage and community to join us in this fight. Together, we can ensure that the Gullah Geechee culture on Sapelo Island not only survives but also thrives for generations to come.
Representative Sandra Scott represents the citizens of District 76, which includes portions of Clayton County. She was elected to the House of Representatives in 2010 and currently serves as the Minority Caucus Chief Deputy Whip. She also serves on the Banks & Banking, Defense & Veterans Affairs, Human Relations & Aging, Insurance and Reapportionment and Redistricting committees.
Representative Viola Davis represents the citizens of District 87, which includes portions of DeKalb County. She was elected to the House of Representatives in 2018 and currently serves on the Defense & Veterans Affairs, Insurance, Interstate Cooperation, Natural Resources & Environment and Urban Affairs committees.
Representative Kim Schofield represents the citizens of District 63, which includes portions of Fulton County. She was elected to the House of Representatives in 2017 and currently serves as the Secretary of the Urban Affairs Committee. She also serves on the Creative Arts & Entertainment, Health, Interstate Cooperation and Small Business Development committees.
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