The Bridge, Not the Barrier: Andrew Calhoun’s Legacy and My Commitment to McDonough

This weekend, I attended Wesley Chapel United Methodist Church’s 2025 Men’s Day and witnessed a powerful moment, former Commissioner Andrew Calhoun being honored as a Living Legend.

A native of Montgomery, Alabama, Mr. Calhoun became the first Black person elected as a Henry County Commissioner in 1984 and served for 12 years. His leadership paved the way for so many of us now working to serve our communities.

Mr. Calhoun, originally from Montgomery, Alabama, became the first Black person elected as a Henry County Commissioner in 1984. He wasn’t from here, yet he made this county his home and dedicated years of service to making it better for everyone. That’s what leadership looks like.

His story reminded me why I’m so passionate about serving. Like Mr. Calhoun, I’m not from here — I’m from Steubenville, Ohio, a small town in Ohio. My husband and I have lived in many places, and McDonough is where we’ve chosen as our final destination. Still, I’ve noticed how often being “not from here” is treated like a barrier instead of a bridge.

I’ve met incredible residents who are warm, open, and collaborative and I’ve also seen how some longtime residents hold tightly to the belief that this city “belongs” to those born here. That kind of thinking divides us and limits our collective potential.

Communities grow stronger when they welcome new voices, fresh ideas, and people willing to roll up their sleeves and work for the common good, no matter where they were born.

During Wesley Chapel’s 2025 Men’s Day, where Mr. Calhoun was recognized, I also saw their time capsule, sealed in 2017 and set to be opened in 2067. It reminded me that the legacy we’re building now should be one of inclusion, growth, and shared purpose.

When that capsule is opened decades from now, I hope McDonough is remembered not for who was “from here,” but for how we came together to make it better.

Let’s build a better McDonough, together. 🌺

Montina Young Fraiser
Candidate McDonough City Council At-Large