Letter-to-the-Editor: 'Political grandstanding that breeds intolerance and fear is toxic to us as a species'

Editor's Note: The following is a letter sent to the editor of Stoneham and Winchester Patch. To have a letter published in the Patch, email it to joe.lipovich@patch.com for consideration.

WINCHESTER, MA

Dear Winchester Patch Editor,

The tragedy of Orlando and its aftermath is not lost on me. As a taxpaying resident of Massachusetts, as someone who is openly both bisexual and transgender, and as a parent and spouse, I understand the loss of life that occurred in a very personal way.

We need political leaders and representatives who affirm the sanctity of human life in realistic and meaningful ways and value its rich diversity. State Representative Michael Day understands this. Governor Baker appears not to. While a vigil was being held at Boston City Hall for the victims of the Orlando shooting, Governor Baker chose instead to participate in a fundraiser for Day’s opponent, who has come out publicly against marriage equality, funding the State LGBT Youth Commission, and transgender rights.

Political grandstanding that breeds intolerance and fear is toxic to us as a species. We need to put our guns and our fears down. We need to talk with each other. We need public discourse, not fear-mongering and bigotry. Gov. Baker, please demonstrate true leadership.

Bobbi Taylor

preferred pronouns: she/her/hers; they/them/theirs

Stoneham, MA