To the Editor:
Can we please preserve some decency during these turbulent political times?
I found the content in a particular letter to the editor last week (Jan. 19, “He opposes the sanctuary Island idea“) highly offensive. The Brazilian immigrants who live on Martha’s Vineyard are my cherished former students, the nurse who just took care of me at the hospital, the friendly grocery store cashier who knows my children’s names, my family’s tenderhearted baybsitter, and so much more.
When statements like John Dipple’s are made, they degrade our entire community. While it’s important to keep conversations going between disparate political groups, a basic level of respect must always come first.
Furthermore, I would like to add that I completely support our local law enforcement’s practice for effective community policing, as described by in Chief Erik Blake in a recent MV Times article (Jan 11, “Immigration forum explores how the Vineyard can support its immigrants”). I appreciate their commitment to keeping our community safe while refraining from pursuing strictly optional partnerships with federal immigration enforcement. I would like to think our local police chiefs know best how to serve and protect the Island.
Here’s to hoping Martha’s Vineyard will remain a kind, safe, thoughtful, diverse community no matter who is president.
Moira C. Silva
West Tisbury