Written by Tanya Terry, with photos provided by Mr. El-Alamin
After winning 52% of the vote, 1st Ward City Councilman Leon El-Alamin told the Courier what it was like to learn he has now officially been elected to serve in and maintain his seat on council.
“As they were going through the numbers, I ended up going to sleep – and then I got a text at maybe 4 or 5 in the morning from a friend,” he said “They showed me the results, and I jumped up. I was just excited and thankful the residents are in support of me and allowing me this opportunity to serve as their 1st Ward councilperson.”
El-Alamin said he definitely plans to have a lot of meetings with residents of the ward and learn of their needs, concerns and desires.
El-Alamin stated he will continue to focus on blight, getting funding for home renovations and new homes in the ward and public safety. So far, he has been able to help renovate 20 homes. He also has been working to get individuals’ sidewalks repaved and been making sure trees get trimmed or cut down.
El-Alamin explained one home he was able to help renovate is not in the 1st Ward, but in the 5th Ward.
“But we’re creating jobs in the process of doing that; so, that’s something I will continue to do and advocate for funding to do,” he said.
For the current project, at least 15 people were given jobs.
El-Alamin told the Courier he feels the council has “too much division right now.”
“You’ve got council people not coming to meetings for whatever reasons they’re putting out there, and we can’t move the city forward,” added El-Alamin. “That’s disheartening because it’s hurting the residents. However, if you’re going to vote, still come to work. If you’re going to vote no, that’s fine. But at least come, and we can have quorums.”
El-Alamin is also founder of the M.A.D.E. Institute, an organization with the mission is to provide comprehensive violence prevention, solution-driven research and workforce development for at-risk youth and returning citizens.
“A big part of being able to be in the position, but to amplify the work I was already doing through my organization is huge – because a lot of the work I’m doing from a council seat was work I was already doing. It’s just amplified more now.”
El-Alamin said that despite the fact there are stalemate situations on council, through his organization he is still able to get done the work he wants to get done.
Regarding where El-Alamin has been, where he is now and where he is going, he said the following to the Courier:
“As I stand before you as the newly elected 1st Ward City Councilman, I want to take a moment to share my journey and the values that will guide my service.
“Over 20 years ago, I was a man who had made mistakes—mistakes that led to incarceration. My time in prison taught me valuable lessons about accountability, redemption and the importance of community. Upon my release, I made a conscious decision to transform my life. It has not been an easy path, but through determination, hard work and the support of those who believed in me, I have turned my life around.
“I am proud to say that I have become an advocate for second chances and a voice for those who feel unheard. My experiences have shaped my understanding of the challenges many in our community face, especially those who have been marginalized. I know firsthand the barriers that exist for individuals seeking to reintegrate into society, and I am committed to addressing these issues as your councilman.
“As I take on this new role, my focus will be on building a more inclusive and equitable 1st ward and Flint. I believe in the power of community collaboration and want to ensure that every voice is heard in our decision-making processes. Together, we can work to improve our neighborhoods, enhance public safety and create opportunities for all residents.
“I want to emphasize that change is possible. My story is a testament to the fact that we can rise from adversity and make a positive impact. I encourage everyone to believe in the potential for transformation, both in themselves and in our community.
“Thank you for your support, and I look forward to working with you all to create a brighter future for the 1st ward residents and Flint.”’
El-Alamin’s term will be over at the end of 2026. He is looking forward to again seeking the position and continuing to advocate for the community through the political seat. Although he said he understands not everyone was in support of him remaining in his seat, he believes the residents who elected him “knew his heart.”
