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
Women Winning
I’m thrilled to be endorsed by Women Winning. Their slogan inspires me, “She runs. We win.”
Women Winning is a champion for the rights and bodily autonomy of women, including our transgender sisters and siblings.
Cathy Abene - Park Board President & District 6 Commissioner
“I've seen Mary's love for our Minneapolis parks up close, from coaching kids at Theodore Wirth Park to serving on key park committees. She's a teacher and advocate who’s all about getting young people involved, restoring our environment, and making sure everyone can enjoy our parks. I’m excited to support Mary McKelvey for At Large Commissioner and hope you’ll vote for her on November 4th!”
Steffanie Musich - Park Board Vice President & District 5 Commissioner
“Mary is not only a kind and curious person but she is also well prepared to represent Minneapolis residents across the city. Her volunteer service means she's met Minneapolitans from all walks of life in different settings and her work with the League of Women Voters means she knows what good governance looks like. Mary is ready to hit the ground running on day one as your next At Large park commissioner.”
Eduardo Arteaga - Loppet Coach, Yinghua Academy coach, Venezuela’s representative for FIS Nordic World Ski Championships, Willard-Hay resident
What would Minneapolis be without its beautiful parks?
I trust Mary will be a great At Large commissioner for Minneapolis Parks. I’ve known her for over 5 years, first as a co-coach at Loppet, then as a trainer partner, then as a friend. Minneapolis Parks would be in good hands under her supervision.
I’ve seen Mary’s commitment to our parks and city firsthand as a fellow volunteer coach. I support her vision and belief in the importance of our parks!