Racism Has No Place in Our City Leadership

Letter to the Editor,

I am deeply concerned by the recent racist comment made August 12th at the City Council meeting by Councilmember Laura Aukerman. The subject was regarding the federal holiday, Juneteenth – not just pertaining to the freedom of slaves, but an opportunity for us to celebrate freedom and equal rights in the United States. These remarks were not only offensive, but they also undermined the values of respect and equality that our community should strive to uphold.

Elected officials have a responsibility to serve all of their constituents, regardless of their personal opinions. When a city council member engages in racist speech, it erodes public trust, divides our community, and sets a poor example for future leaders.

Since our community deserves leadership that represents us all, I call on Councilmember Aukerman to take accountability, reflect on the impact of her words, and commit to doing better. Personal prejudices should not be discussed in the business of our city, or any place that conducts business in Dayton! Silence in the face of such prejudice is complicity.

We must hold our public officials to the highest standard—because the character of our leadership reflects the character of our city.

Melody Shahan

Dayton, Washington