The National Civic League has named High Point as an All-American City, one of 10 municipalities in the country to earn the distinction this year.
Strengthening democracy is a main component of the competition. Mayor Cyril Jefferson says transparency and engagement were the keys to winning the award. Jefferson also cited engagement efforts, including the One High Point Commission, which helps the city address disparities, particularly involving communities of color.
Jefferson says that kind of outreach leads to a more involved citizenry.
“America — the democracy — was an experiment," he says. "And it's so beautiful that we get to live out this experiment every day. It doesn't mean that we always get it right. It doesn't mean that we're perfect. It also doesn't mean that we sit on sidelines as it happens. I appreciate everyone who's getting in the game.”
Jefferson says transparency was also key to earning the All-American City recognition. He says that meant being honest that High Point faced a serious issue with food insecurity.
He says the delegation from the city shared how High Point came together to address the problem through such efforts as community gardens and a mobile grocery store.