A “Stand Up For Ellen” sign stands by my driveway, and I voted enthusiastically at Town Meeting to urge the School Committee to name our new middle school for Ellen Garrison.
Three weeks later, the Committee voted the name “The Ellen Garrison Building at the Concord Middle School.”
Would I have preferred the simple “Ellen Garrison Middle School?” Absolutely. Is the new name clunky? Yes. Is the new name acceptable? Also yes.
The School Committee vote is a clear victory for Stand Up For Ellen. A victory does not have to be 100% to be a victory. Three-quarters of a loaf should be acceptable in our town, where respect for divergent views is fundamental and harmony an important goal.
At Town Meeting it was accurately said: there’s not a single public building in Concord named for a person of color. But now there is. And it’s the newest, most expensive public building in Concord history.
Our town DEI Commission’s long-term charge is “to increase cooperation… and dialogue” and “facilitate… unity.” This year’s Action Plan features an inclusive retailer program, Pride, and a better incident reporting system. These merit increased energy now.
I urge others, who like myself Stand Up For Ellen, to support the School Committee action.
The Committee and superintendent repeatedly stated that Ellen’s life was a powerful example that deserved to be taught. Now they can demonstrate their commitment beyond lip service — beginning with putting Ellen at the center of the school opening celebration in February. That’s a way to bridge divisiveness and demonstrate townwide unity for Standing Up For Ellen.
Eric Van Loon
Marthas Point Road
