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Positive and Productive Way

I’m writing in response to the May 10 article “Guilford Residents Ask for Human Rights Commission.” I would like to applaud these residents for coming forward and doing the heavy lifting over the past several months to be able to bring this proposal to the Board of Selectmen. So many people expressed outrage and heartache over the incidents cited, but did not have the motivation to do something proactive.

This group has come together in the most positive and productive way and has already produced a safe place for idea exchange and communication. I am certainly in support of forming a commission if deemed feasible and see it as an advocacy and education center. Those of us with kids in the school system know that our children are unfortunately exposed to discriminating viewpoints/behaviors at a young age, and support for programs in the schools to address this would be a great partnership with such a commission.

I would encourage residents who are not familiar with these issues to reach out to these women to discuss their concerns and understand the intention of this group. If you have not been exposed to discrimination based on “race, gender, ethnicity, religion, nationality, sexual orientation, age, health status, or ability,” please do speak to those that have.

Meg Teape

Guilford