Marquese Kwame Averett, known to most as "Skinny," is an organizer by training and an activist by passion who has spent his life amplifying the voices of people too often pushed to the margins. Most recently Managing Director of Regional Organizing for Partnership for Southern Equity, he worked across the South to advance equity, economic justice, and systems that work for everyday people. A proud graduate of Fort Valley State University, he has earned the Rainbow PUSH Trailblazer Award, Omega Psi Phi Citizen of the Year, the Firm Grip Achievement Award, and twice been named one of the 50 Most Influential African Americans in Columbus — recognition he sees as reflecting the collective work of community, not personal achievement. Marquese is running for  State House District 140 because Georgia families deserve leadership that works for them, not just a select few: affordable healthcare, strong public schools, real economic opportunity, and support for the veterans and military families who call Columbus home.