Atlanta-based community organizer, author, and activist Scotty Smart joined host Dr. Dee on the Wake Up With Dee Morning Show to discuss grassroots activism, civic education, and his debut book, All Power Back To The People: How Ordinary Citizens Create Change.
From the Streets of Atlanta to Civic Advocate
Scotty Smart’s entry into activism began nearly a decade ago following a personal experience with racial profiling and the 2014 protests after the death of Mike Brown. Over the last 12 years, Smart has established himself as a prominent community organizer in Atlanta, focusing on issues directly impacting the Black community—including criminal justice reform, police accountability, mental health awareness, and local legislative change.
During the interview, Smart emphasized the importance of breaking down policy so that it connects directly to everyday life—from local taxes to healthcare and school board decisions.
Demystifying Politics: All Power Back To The People
In his book, Smart breaks down basic civic engagement into digestible terms for readers who feel intimidated or alienated by traditional political discourse.
Key themes discussed during the segment included:
- Connecting Reality to Policy: Demonstrating how everyday expenses, community resources, and local legislation tie directly to elected decision-makers.
- Civic Education 101: Explaining local roles—from city council members and school board representatives to district attorneys and county commissioners.
- Mobilizing the Next Generation: Closing the turnout gap among voters aged 18 to 35 by meeting people where they are without judgment.
"I want to welcome them into politics with a reader-friendly book that makes it digestible to the average person, so they understand the connection between their bills, their taxes, and the decision-makers on the ballot."
— Scotty Smart
Get the Book & Connect
Scotty Smart’s book, All Power Back To The People, is available for purchase directly through his official website:
- Purchase the Book: smarttrouble.com
- Follow on Instagram: @smarttrouble
- Email Inquiries / Speaking Engagements:
changecreatorsmart@gmail.com
Tune In to Wake Up With Dee
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- When: Monday–Friday | 7:00 AM – 10:00 AM EST
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