Framingham Residents Endorse Shepard, Sousa In House Race: Letters

The following letters to the editor do not reflect the views of Framingham Patch

As a life long resident who has been involved in the civic life of Framingham for over 50 years, I know that we have had a rich history of sending strong, thoughtful, progressive leadership to the State House to represent us. Priscila Sousa will continue that legacy. Priscila stands out as one of the most hard working and impressive community leaders I have seen over my many years of involvement. Priscila Sousa knows the value of building partnerships and collaborations to get things done.

Her background, accomplishments and proven effective leadership skills make her an ideal candidate for State Representative. Priscila is committed to the Democratic principles of justice, equity, inclusion and fairness for all. She is dedicated to bringing state resources to Framingham to confront environmental pollution, to build a new state of the art elementary school on the Southside, to expand early education opportunities, to improve and enhance the downtown and many more quality of life initiatives.

We have the opportunity with this election to send Priscila Sousa to the State House where she will be an energetic advocate for and a strong voice of the people of Framingham.

Please cast your vote for Priscila Sousa in the Democratic Primary on Tuesday, September 6th."

—Jerry Desilets, Framingham

I am writing to endorse the candidacy of Margareth Shepard for Framingham’s new Sixth Middlesex District. Although I don’t live in the district, we are still one Framingham, and it is crucial that our representatives work collegially and effectively in the best interests of our city.

I have followed Margareth's trajectory since her time as a city councilor and she always impressed me with her calm and thoughtful demeanor. It was obvious her life experiences shaped how she expressed herself and engaged with others.

Margareth ran for City Council in 2017 when anti-immigrant sentiment ran high throughout our country. Nonetheless, she won her seat handily and never shied away from advocacy for immigrant rights. While others in the local political establishment resisted becoming a welcoming community for immigrants, Margareth moved an official welcoming ordinance forward. (More information can be found in this article.)

In her personal and political life, Margareth is a striver in the best sense of the word. She came from Brazil as a single parent, learned English, started a business, raised a family, and became active in civic life.

She is independent, not beholden to entrenched political entities, but knows the value of partnerships. Her work has been guided by what is best for her city constituents; she will remain focused on how to best serve all her constituents at the State House.

Teachers, nurses, women’s groups, environmentalists, legislators, progressives are lined up in full support of Margareth Shepard for the new Sixth Middlesex. I urge you to vote for Margareth on September 6th.

—Esta Montano, Framingham

As long time active members in Framingham’s government, we are impressed with Priscila’s ability to lead and bring people together to achieve common goals. From organizing playground builds to chairing the School Committee, Priscila has the community experience needed to be a state representative.

—Valerie, Martin Mulvey, Framingham