Cochran-Johnson’s Bold Vision for DeKalb County's Future

Empowered Suburban Women are Changing Georgia's Political Landscape

Update A New Era of Political Engagement in Georgia In the vibrant suburbs of Atlanta, women are emerging as pivotal players in shaping the future of Georgia's political landscape. This grassroots movement is characterized by a growing network of suburban women who, once reluctant to step into the political arena, are now proactively influencing elections and public policy. From organizing canvassing events to participating in local campaigns, their commitment reflects a significant shift in political dynamics, steering the state toward a more inclusive and representative governance. The Power of Grassroots Activism A striking illustration of this grassroots trend unfolded in Alpharetta, where volunteers, primarily women, gathered to support Democratic candidate Debra Shigley in her recent Senate race. Among them was Barbara Peters, a first-time canvasser driven by deep concern for the current political climate. “I’ve never been highly political, but I’m becoming political because I feel like we’re in danger,” Peters shared, echoing the sentiments of many who feel compelled to act in uncertain times. This surge in political participation among suburban women is not just a response to national tensions; it has deeper roots in their experiences as mothers and caretakers, leading them to demand greater accountability from elected officials. Significant Gains in Representation The impact of this grassroots movement is evident in the numbers. Since 2016, the representation of women in Georgia's General Assembly has increased from 24% to 34%. Figures from the Center for American Women and Politics show that suburban women have helped flip 17 legislative seats from Republican to Democrat since 2017. This shift is attributed not only to changing demographics but also a unified effort by grassroots organizations like Georgia WIN List, which focuses on empowering women candidates who prioritize issues like education, healthcare, and reproductive rights. A Diverse Political Landscape Georgia's shifting demographics, driven by a rise in diverse populations and young professionals, have made its suburbs battlegrounds for political contestation. Areas that were once Republican strongholds are now hotbeds of engagement, with women playing a central role. For example, the transformation of the Sixth Congressional District, historically represented by Republican Newt Gingrich, underscores how swiftly the political landscape can change. As a result, suburban women find themselves not only voting but actively shaping elections, illustrating a broader cultural and political reawakening. Local Movements with a Broader Impact Organizations such as the Georgia Postcard Project have successfully mobilized suburban women who balance careers and family duties while contributing to political causes from home. Launched during the pandemic, this initiative reflects the unique challenges faced by women. Participants, often during the late hours after putting their children to bed, connect and organize through simple yet impactful actions like writing personalized postcards to potential voters. Bridging Divides: A Common Mission However, this surge in political engagement is not limited to Democratic women; conservative voices are also rising. The organization Women Lead Right aims to rekindle support among suburban women who had distanced themselves from the Republican Party during recent elections. Leah Aldridge, president of Women Lead Right, emphasizes the necessity of empowering women across the political spectrum, acknowledging their essential role in shaping policies that align with familial values. The Future: A Critical Role for Women As Georgia heads into a pivotal election year in 2026, suburban women are poised to significantly influence upcoming races. Many are increasingly stepping into roles that allow them to advocate for policies affecting daily life, such as education and utility management. “We can be angry about what’s happening in Washington, but we can also do something at the local level,” emphasizes Teri Anulewicz, a former city council member, highlighting the importance of local governance. This grassroots enthusiasm reflects a broader awakening, where suburban women are no longer sidelined spectators but are instead primary actors in their communities. If you enjoyed this story, why not stay connected? Join Atlanta Local Unplugged on Facebook and YouTube for exclusive local information. @atlantalocalunplugged