On April 21, Ledyard Republican Town Councilor Andra Ingalls, a member of the Community Relations Committee, suggested that it was necessary to provide a “counter perspective” against a speaker for social justice. The committee is charged with “providing recommendations to the Town Council that promote a welcoming experience and dignified treatment for residents.” It was formed in 2020 after a number of protests and calls to action to secure social justice in the town. Three councilors form this committee, two of whom are Republicans.

I would like to know how marginalized members of the town have adequate representation on a board that would suggest that racism should have a voice? This seems to be antithetical to the mission statement. A constituent proposed the idea of the panel, and the councilor’s response was abhorrent.

Who did she intend to invite? Why is a "counter perspective" to social justice necessary? There are many topics that have viable counter arguments such as economic policy or zoning policy, but there is no alternative argument to social justice (other than racism).

By the way, this is just the most recent act by Ledyard Republicans that messages their desire to keep Ledyard “a certain way.”

Isabella Langlois

Ledyard