Mayor Andre Dickens recently sat down with Juandolyn Stokes, host of On Point with Juandolyn Stokes, for an in-depth conversation about Atlanta’s transformative approach to public safety, youth development, and community building—highlighting the city’s commitment to non-policing strategies that are effectively reducing crime and increasing opportunity.
At the center of their conversation was the city’s notable drop in crime, including a 50% reduction in homicides and a 30% decrease in violent crime overall. Rather than relying solely on traditional law enforcement models, Mayor Dickens emphasized a holistic, community-focused approach that prioritizes prevention and connectivity.
A key part of Mayor Dickens’ strategy is the expansion of after-school programs and summer jobs—with over 6,000 youth employed this past summer through city initiatives. The administration has also partnered with organizations like Emerging 100 and 100 Black Women, not only to amplify their impact but also to provide direct financial support to help them do more grassroots work.
The Mayor introduced a new initiative known as the CARE Unit —a progressive model of community policing focused on sensitivity, deescalation, mental health response, and social connectivity, instead of force.
This shift in strategy is part of a larger national trend among Black mayors across the country, who are innovating new ways to lower violence without over-policing.
The discussion also touched on food access, a critical part of the city’s equity agenda. Efforts are underway to increase access to fresh food in underserved areas and ensure that Atlanta’s growth is inclusive.
In a lighter moment during the interview amid Juandolyn Stokes’ inquiry, Mayor Dickens revealed the biggest secret about ATL: “If you live in Atlanta for more than five minutes, you’re officially a native— “ You’ve been blessed and ordained with an ATL sprinkle of love”—a phrase Juandolyn Stokes echoed with enthusiasm, noting the uniquely soulful and supportive spirit of the city.
On Point with Juandolyn Stokes airs weekdays 10am - 1pm on News & Talk WAOK and continues to be a vital platform for informing and empowering the Atlanta community.