"The work of the Second Generation is extremely important because as immigrants, we are not always aware of the different resources that are available to take advantage of, especially in the political arena. I feel so fortunate to have an organization of people that can relate to some of my experiences and are willing to help me."
- Joar Dahn
ENDORSED FOR MAYOR OF DARBY BOROUGH, PENNSYLVANIA
Joar is a Liberian immigrant, a community leader, and rising star in Pennsylvania politics.
Joar Dahn has spent the majority of his life in Darby Borough, where he has been deeply committed to community service. Though only 27 years old, Joar has served as a liaison between the immigrant community and both local and state government for many years. Although his first bid for mayor in 2021 was unsuccessful, he is running again at the request of members of his community, many of whom feel that immigrants are not being treated fairly or represented adequately.
Joar has worked as an advisor to state representative and mayoral candidates, and as a staffer in the Pennsylvania Senate, Joar has played a key role in advancing policies that benefit local residents. Throughout his career, Joar has remained dedicated to advocating for the needs of the people and has utilized his political expertise to help drive change in his local community.
Joar immigrated to America in 2006 from Ghana, where he and his family had lived for 5 years as refugees amidst the Liberian Civil War. He received his undergraduate degree in Political Science at Bloomsburg University and a Masters of Public Administration from West Chester University. In 2020, Joar served on a task force to help encourage the local immigrant community to take the COVID-19 vaccine and helped organize a group from Philadelphia to join thousands of other advocates in the nation’s capital to demand protection for dreamers (DACA) and provide a path to permanency and citizenship.
With a strong track record of leadership and a deep understanding of government, Joar is ready to bring his experience and passion to the office of mayor.
Joar’s priorities as Mayor of Darby Borough:
Safety — Joar promises to enhance public safety by investing in youth opportunities through trade school partnerships, combatting gun violence through collaboration with regional law enforcement, and advocating for common-sense gun laws.
Recreation — Joar believes Darby needs more youth programs. He hopes to create engaging outlets for kids and secure resident discounts for regional cultural events like the Philadelphia Zoo to ensure families have enriching experiences.
Small Business — To revitalize Darby's struggling businesses, Joar proposes the creation of a Chamber of Commerce and establishing more secure grant access. He hopes to modernize Darby’s Main Street with mixed-use zoning, mirroring successful models in nearby Media.
Infrastructure — Joar plans to partner with the Sheriff’s Office to find responsible investors for the vacant and abandoned properties in the Borough, as well as support first-time homebuyers with tax reform and resource access.
Visit joardahn.com for more info.