National Geographic Traveller UK - 01 e 02.2022

Culture & history

ATLANTA, GEORGIA

BE INSPIRED BY A SHINING SOUTHERN CITY

At a time when voting rights are in contention in the

United States, Atlanta is flexing its cultural and political

muscle through two formidable voter empowerment

organisations: The New Georgia Project and Fair Fight

Action, both founded by Atlanta-based political leader

and activist Stacey Abrams.

Georgia’s largest city is also an epicentre of Black

entrepreneurship, incubating businesses such as plant-

based burger chain Slutty Vegan. Easily accessible on

foot or by bike via the BeltLine’s Eastside Trail, the Old

Fourth Ward neighbourhood blends nightlife venues

with historic highlights.

Being at the forefront of social change isn’t new,

says city native Bem Joiner, co-founder of the creative

agency Atlanta Influences Everything. “Atlanta’s ‘special

sauce’ is its three Cs: civic, corporate and cultural.

We’re the cradle of the Civil Rights Movement, the

home of Coca-Cola and our hip-hop culture shapes

global culture.”

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