I have lived in Franklin County for 44 of my 67 years, and I expect to stay here. I have lived in Greenfield for much of that time, including the last four years. I love this place!

Over the past year in this town, some people have used symbols and language in ways that have led others to feel hurt and unsafe. Some of these actions may have unintentionally caused hurt, but others seem to me to have been taken on purpose to try to bring others pain in the name of self-expression.

I am very sad that this has happened. How do I respond? I gather with people, listen to their stories and support their actions to address discrimination.

I read about the experiences of those who are affected by racism, anti-Semitism and other types of prejudice.

As a bisexual white man in a long-term relationship with another man, I share my own stories and support others of all sexual and gender identities to do the same. Numerous opportunities are provided here in Franklin County to have all of these important conversations.

I support our elected officials and the people you appoint to provide moral leadership, promote civility and prosecute criminal activity. Thank you for what you have already done in these respects.

An investigation is currently underway into some people’s use of the internet to demean others. Many citizens are concerned about the course of these investigations.

I ask that you carry them out with your highest professional integrity and keep us as informed as possible about progress.

And I speak now to those who are directly involved in these recent hurtful experiences, both recipients and senders. If you have felt hurt by these communications, please know that many, many people are available to support and love you.

If someone has felt hurt by your actions, please consider reaching out to them to listen to their experience.

If you are deliberately trying to hurt them, please ask yourself why you are doing this and imagine how your life could be different if you would identify yourselves and seek to make amends.

We are a great community that will become greater through these times!

Dave Gott

Greenfield