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Dear Neighbors,
I’m supporting Tara Gregory in the upcoming Special Election on May 14. Tara is thoughtful, intelligent, kind, and eager to continue their passion for volunteerism in a new capacity. I can’t think of anyone better suited to bring civility back to our Select Board.
I recently noticed an addition to Tara’s campaign website bio, revealing they have multiple invisible disabilities, anxiety, PTSD and depression. During Tara’s first campaign, they did not share this personal information but at the time, I was disappointed to see disparaging comments about Tara on social media, questioning their ability to serve based on how they delivered answers at the forum. Others questioned if Tara wrote their own notes.
It crossed my mind that Tara may have used notes to communicate in a way that made them most comfortable, and I thought it showed preparation for a position they cared about. Were they polished? No. Were they nervous to be speaking on camera? Yes. I would be too! It’s ok to not have all the answers and it’s certainly ok to be nervous on camera. What isn’t ok is mocking someone for using tools that help them communicate effectively, or if they appear nervous or anxious. Tara’s decision to share this part of themselves with us demonstrates bravery and honesty. When someone utilizes tools to communicate as effectively as possible, our instinct should not be to pounce on it in an attempt to make ourselves appear superior.
This letter may be met with a response such as, “How could anyone know?” or possibly an apology. We can do better. Reading voters can change the tone on the Select Board and push back against a pattern of attacks and assumptions.
Please take an opportunity to learn about Tara at a Meet and Greet or visit their website: www.Tara4SelectBoard.com. I’m voting for Tara because they are authentic, dedicated to serving our community, and advocate for underrepresented groups. I hope our next Select Board member is unwavering in their actions and words that kindness is at the heart of their commitment to our community.
Julie Ross
Kensington Ave.
Town Meeting Member, Precinct 5
