Intersectional Psychological Violence, Threats, and Physical Violence against Mayors in 2021

Violence against mayors, particularly women and women of color, discourages potential leaders from serving in their communities. Safety risks to elected officials must be addressed to support diverse representation in local leadership positions. Communities should implement safety training for mayors, encourage candidates to use post office boxes for campaigns, and utilize the Secret Service's National Threat Assessment Center. Diverse representation is the foundation of a fully legitimate democracy, it is essential to address violence against elected officials so people of all identities continue to run for office.