GREENFIELD — At-Large Town Councilor Penny Ricketts believes there is no place for hatred in Greenfield and is seeking the full council’s support for a resolution of respect she drafted, which pledges to combat prejudice in town.
Ricketts wrote the resolution after learning the Pierce Brothers Coffee Roasters have faced repeated verbal harrassment. Owners Sean and Darren Pierce spoke during last month’s Town Council meeting to say their employees have been subjected to frequent harassment from certain members of the community — including anti-Semitic remarks — and feel threatened. The proposed resolution states that Greenfield pledges to speak out and combat prejudice, bullying and discrimination in town.
“After speaking with the owners of Pierce Brothers on the phone and hearing them speak at a recent Council meeting, I have felt sick to my stomach that this business had to hear such hateful statements,” Ricketts said in a statement. “Not only have they been verbally attacked, but (so have) other businesses carrying their product. I cannot simply look away or pray they can get over this ordeal. I want them to know they have support and allies. Although their incidents have spurred me to write this resolution, it is for every business and resident. There is no place for hate in Greenfield.”
The resolution will be voted on by Town Council during its June 15 meeting.