In the Recorder’s Oct. 12 edition, an article covering the Leverett Select Board meeting noted that a resident’s proposal to read the Pledge of Allegiance before Town Meetings “received a cool reception from the Select Board.” I would like to correct that characterization. While one board member expressed personal reservations, this did not speak for the whole board.
The resident stated that the Select Board must represent all people in town. I absolutely agree, and I carry that belief into my own service to our community. It is worth noting that while the single board member had personal reservations about reciting the pledge, he also explicitly stated his belief that the decision ultimately belongs before the Town Meeting. This specific issue is one that must be brought forward via a citizens’ petition.
In Leverett, Town Meeting is where everyone can truly represent themselves by their votes, reflecting our community as a whole far better than the actions of any single elected official.
Patricia Duffy
Leverett Select Board, Chair