DaJuan Kyre Gay (D) | Ward 6
Challenger to candidate Shaneka Henson (D) for seat being vacated by retiring incumbent Kenneth Kirby (D)
DaJuan Kyre Gay has lived in Ward 6 since he moved to Annapolis when he was in middle school. He is currently a rising junior at the University of Maryland, Eastern Shore. He believes his internships with the Maryland General Assembly and the Maryland judiciary have prepared him well for public office. Gay plans to transfer to either Bowie State University or Towson University to complete his degree and to be closer to Annapolis. He is running for alderman of Ward 6 because he believes his constituents need a strong voice to represent them. He says he plans to be a visible, accessible, and proactive leader who can communicate effectively with constituents and provide new ideas to address lingering issues.
Gay’s top priorities for Ward 6 include reducing crime by providing offenders a chance to change the course of their life through the implementation of community tools that will reduce the likelihood of their returning to jail, such as alternative education courses and job training. In addition, he plans to hold the public housing authority accountable to residents, expand economic opportunity through job creation and internship options, provide academic opportunities through job training and skills certification programs at community centers, and raise awareness of environmental issues. Gay believes he has the energy, vision, and leadership skills to tackle these issues.
Gay says that he will focus on inclusiveness at the individual, ward, and city levels. He wants to shine a light on all wards and showcase what each has to offer. He would like the city to focus on revitalizing areas that are not necessarily in the limelight, and he wants to expand affordable housing and protect our environment through responsible action.
This profile is based on interviews Action Annapolis conducted with the candidates in June. Gay also attended the Action Annapolis-sponsored Candidate Meet and Greet on June 7, 2017.