INDIANAPOLIS — Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett shared his vision of a post-pandemic city, speaking Tuesday to members of the Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance.
He touched on education, the economy, housing, crime and more.
"I'm tired of the prosperity going to people who look like me," Hogsett said.
According to Hogsett, the city is making it more equitable for qualified minority-owned businesses, businesses like Fresh Market on the east side, serving communities of color.
"They accomplished, in no small measure, what most people say can't be done, and they did it," Hogsett said.
Hogsett touted more downtown investments and economic growth.
"Indianapolis topped a recent list of economic growth among all Midwestern cities in recent years," Hogsett said.
His vision also centered on education.
"I want this to be a city where education is promoted to the highest levels," Hogsett said.
That includes providing stability for the unhoused, with the first low-barrier shelter and housing hub coming to the east side.
Actor and comedian Mike Epps also spoke to clergy about connecting with youth and helping steer them away from a life of crime.
"My work is done jumping out the car on 4 or 5 little young dudes that I know ain't right," Epps said. "I tell these little young dudes, 'Man I love you,' and they just look at me like, 'What you say?' I said, 'I love you, man.' He said, 'Aw OG man, I appreciate that.' And then, I'd see that same little kid again a month from now, and he'll have his stuff together."
Sometimes, it's the little things that can make a big impact.
"We have to start bringing in some of those guys that was from the streets because a lot of them have changed, but they can't prove to anyone that they changed because they have backgrounds," Epps said.
Epps is working to be a positive force for good.
"I like to see my influence of anything that I did positive. I like to see it help somebody else," Epps said.