Endorsements

Abdi Bile - Olympic athlete and coach

“Thank you Mary for all you’ve done for us. You've been a friend and someone who has really been helping the Somali community---the kids and the adults.”

“Mary, waad ku mahadsantahay wax walbo aad inoo qabatey. Waxaad inoo ahayd saaxiib iyo qof xaquiqdii marwalba caawin jirey bulahada Soomaaliyeed- caruurta iyo dadka wa wayn.”- Cabdi Bile

Nasrieen Habib - Founder of Hiking Hijabie & Amanah Rec Project

“I am proud to endorse Mary McKelvey for Minneapolis Park Board At Large. Mary is a passionate advocate for equity, access, and community representation in our parks and public spaces. Her leadership vision is rooted in making sure that every resident - including BIPOC communities, Muslims, and other historically marginalized groups - feels welcome, safe, and celebrated in our parks.

“As someone deeply engaged in creating safe and accessible outdoor opportunities, I believe Mary’s priorities align with the values of equity, sustainability, and representation that our community needs. Mary understands that parks are more than green spaces; they are gathering places, classrooms, and sanctuaries for mental health and connection. She will bring thoughtful leadership and a collaborative spirit to the Park Board, ensuring our parks remain a place where all voices are heard and all people can thrive.”

“Aad baan ugu hanweynahay inaan Mary McKelvey ku taageero inay u tartanto guddiga guud ee xadiiqadaha (Parks) ee Minneapolis. Mary waa u doodaha sinaanta, helida fursadaha, iyo matalaadda bulshada ee jardiinooyinkayada iyo meelaha dadweynaha. Aragtideeda hoggaamineed waxay salka ku haysaa hubinta in qof kasta oo ku nool deggaankan oo ay ku jiraan bulshooyinka la isku yiraahdo BIPOC, Muslimiinta, iyo dadka kale ee taariikh ahaan la takooro - inay dareemaan soo dhawayn, ammaan, iyo in loogu dabaaldago xadiiqadeheena." - Nasrieen Habib