To the Editor:
I have just finished reading the article published in the MV Times September 23, entitled “Wage dispute leads to a suit by immigrant workers at posh Edgartown home.”
I have lived long enough to know that there are always two sides to every story, and I would most certainly refrain from judgment, but if there is a grain of truth — and I believe the MV Times would not have published this without first carefully vetting the facts — then I am appalled by the actions of the homeowners as stated in the article.
There are many who have come to us over the years. They do not know what a deeply caring community the Vineyard is. To us, integrity is not just a word. Justice is not just a word. Honor is not just a word. Our values were born and bred into us. And when we stop to think about it, we all believe in the American dream. When these four Brazilian men put their dreams in their pockets and came to our shores, they were following in the footsteps of all of our ancestors.
I am deeply saddened by the treatment they have received on the Island. Where to begin to proffer a helping hand? I am ancient of days now, but I will find a way. I will begin with this letter.
So many times all of us, when hearing of another catastrophe in the world, wish we could help in some way. And if we think about it, we send off a check to the appropriate charity. But this tragedy has happened in our midst. It is up to each and every one of us to help. To put it simply, it is the Vineyard way.
Claire Nickerson Hall
Edgartown
