I was disturbed by the stance taken in the August 2, 2024, letter, “DEI Commission’s ‘bullying’ a cause for concern.” Is this a reasoned response to asking that interested Concordians play a role in how Ellen Garrison is honored through word and signage at our new school?
The term “DEI mouthpieces,” is a derisive descriptor for a body whose charge is to bring forward the stories of those peoples unrecognized and underrepresented when the dominant culture withholds such acknowledgment. As Concord celebrates Alcotts, Thoreaus, and Emersons, who advocates for telling the story of the vibrant Black and Indigenous families who were their contemporaries? It is the purpose of the DEI Commission to elevate these and other cultural touchstones for all to celebrate.
Is it intentional to imply by denoting Ellen Garrison Day, town tours, etc., that there was already enough recognition for this Black woman and that further lobbying for her recognition goes too far? It must be noted that much of what was cited would not have occurred but for the support of the DEI Commission, the Robbins House, and the advocacy of everyday Concordians, citizens who envision a Concord that celebrates its multiracial past and embraces its multiracial future.
Over 360 Concordians signed an online petition supporting Ellen Garrison Middle School for our school’s name, surpassing the 160 correspondences the School Committee cited in favor of Concord Middle School. In the Committee’s zeal for transparency, they discarded 1,100 online signatures without vetting for those that originated in Concord.
Finally, individuals should not publicly hurl insults at one another. I do not condone using slurs or insults in public discourse. However, it should be understood that context and perspective are required to cogently differentiate insult from racial slur and to glean intent when such derisive terms are employed.
Michael Williams
Sudbury Road