Letter To The Editor: Citizens Should Be Encouraged To Speak Out

To the Editor:

Recently the Fairfield Republican Town Committee posted the names and party affiliations of those who spoke at a Public Comment hearing which was required by law (GS Sec, 7-191). The list included this caption: “The Fairfield DTC’s Sad Politicization of Charter Reform.” This is unseemly behavior for a political party. What was the purpose of this outrageous display? Were they trying to embarrass and intimidate those who dared to speak out? Throughout the process the Charter Revision Commission has encouraged the citizens to speak out and to send in email comments.

Let us pause for a moment to embrace the principle of Democracy which is derived from the Greek word “demos” (common citizen) and “kratos” (power, rule) which is determined by majority rule by casting a vote. To quote two people of many, “Democracy literally means the power of the people. Democracy is not about politics, it is about the people. (Tsakhiagiin Elbegdor), and another name more familiar to us, “Deliberation and debate is the way you stir the soul of our democracy.” (Jesse Jackson). Ah, yes, “We the people . . .” Many Americans have fought and died for our right to speak.

Many of those who spoke on June 2nd have been following the process since September 2021 by doing research about the various proposed changes. In addition, they offered language suggestions, and pointed out inconsistencies, and typographical errors. They also referenced General Statutes that may effect the recommendations.

It is not always easy to collect one’s thoughts, go out to a meeting, and then stand and address a panel for three minutes about what is foremost on your mind about a complex ninety page document. But what was really “sad” about the hearing was that only thirty-three people spoke.

To those of you who attended and spoke out, Bravo! Will you dare speak out again after being disparaged for expressing your opinions? Maybe people felt intimidated; maybe they had nothing to say; maybe they didn’t know about the hearing; maybe they just don’t care about what is going on. What if there was a public hearing and no one showed up? THAT would be sad! Shame on those who seek to make a mockery of Democracy.

Judy Ewing
Fairfield, CT