Pausing here to recognize the outstanding actions of Hopkinton residents to denounce the brutal murder of George Floyd. I join Hopkinton in condemning the murder of George Floyd and calling for greater awareness and action on racial justice. To me, the murder represents a public employee betraying the public trust, the failure of our society to address the roots of racism and racial injustice, and a betrayal of our nation’s core values.
The hundreds of residents who have demonstrated on the Hopkinton Common each Sunday in peaceful protest have been participating in perhaps the highest form of patriotism – action and awareness raising to make our country better.
I’m proud of our Hopkinton School Superintendent and Hopkinton Police Chief who both issued clear and direct statements condemning the murder, acknowledging and denouncing racism, and committing to look inward to improve. I’m proud to work at Dell Computer, where founder and CEO Michael Dell was one of the first global business leaders to issue a clear and direct statement denouncing the murder and opening dialogue internally on how to better promote racial equity. And I’m heartened to see local citizens acknowledge our role locally in moving forward reforms in both mindset and institutions.
As a community leader, I consider it my duty to keep the current level of consciousness and momentum alive. I look forward to advancing and participating in School Committee discussion and examination of our role in ensuring fairness and opportunity for all.
