About Richmond Mayorathon
Mayorathon is a collaborative civic engagement and education project of Richmond-based community organizations committed to facilitating transparency, accountability, and participation in city government. Mayorathon was first launched in 2016 by a small group of local organizations and community members who saw a need to center community issues in what was a consequential and competitive Mayoral election.
The partnership, evolving from year to year, represents residents from all corners of the city committed to seeing local government deliver smart policies that make Richmond a more equitable, thriving, and urban place to live. We help Richmonders influence local government, educate elected leaders, and build accountability through community-led candidate questionnaires and forum events.
Mayorathon helps focus City Council elections and the Mayor’s race on issues that matter. Partner organizations identify key policies and questions and asks candidates and community members to consider their thoughts, idea, and solutions to move Richmond forward. Mayorathon partners gather around five different topic areas:
- Transportation
- Housing & Neighborhood Development
- Youth & Families
- Environment
- Public Safety
How We Connect
Administer Candidate Questionnaire
Mayorathon will collect answers from candidates, capturing their positions on policy priorities for Richmond.
Host Candidate Forums
Mayorathon hosts in-person events for the Mayoral race and each competitive Council race where candidates will discuss the top issues. Since its inception, Mayorathon has hosted over 10 events across 3 local election cycles, empowering thousands of Richmond residents in the election process.
Engage & Educate Candidates
Candidates should have access to the knowledge and perspective that partner organizations bring to inform their positions and priorities. Partners are available to communicate with aspiring elected leaders to help them engage with pressing community needs.