To the Editor:
The Portland Democratic Town Committee stands with all those in Connecticut, across the United States, and around the world who are raising their voices in protest against systemic racism and police brutality. We are appalled by the murder of George Floyd. We mourn his death and others who have been victims of a racist criminal justice system.
We reject racism in all its forms and practices. We renew our commitment to working toward equity, inclusion, and safety for all Portland residents. We are listening to better understand the injustices that affect people of color in our community, and we will be a fierce advocate for change moving forward.
Here are some actions we are taking:
We have made a donation to Connecticut groups fighting for racial justice in the court system.
Many members attended the peaceful protest in support of Black Lives Matter in Portland June 5, and continue to attend Board of Selectmen and Board of Education meetings to advocate for tangible change.
We will be hosting community anti-racism training sessions. Details will be shared on our Facebook page.
We will aim to serve as a resource for anyone looking for information on how to get better educated on systemic racism. More information will be available on our website and Facebook page soon.
We will seek out a more diverse pool of candidates for future municipal elections because we understand that representation matters.
Racial justice will be an agenda item at our meetings for the foreseeable future. Meetings take place the first Thursday of every month at 7 p.m. All are welcome. Email PortlandCTDTC@gmail.com for details.
To our black and brown neighbors and friends here in Portland: We see you. We hear you. Your lives matter.
Laurel Steinhauser, Anthony Puorro, Martha Dumas, Portland Democratic Town Committee Chairman Brian O’Connor, on behalf of the entire DTC