It’s time for ‘meaningful action’: Elect Michael Williams to School Committee

We’ve all read about Michael Williams’ impeccable background, but as the father of a two-time cancer survivor who endured over 40 surgeries, I know firsthand the level of empathy, compassion, and sensitivity it takes to support a parent through their hardest moments. 

These same qualities are essential in addressing the serious challenges facing our community — challenges like the ongoing incidents of antisemitism, racism, homophobia, and transphobia at CCHS. The most recent incident occurred in November, before that April, yet the response remains unchanged: empty emails to families, a guest speaker, and then the hope that time will help us forget.

The Youth Risk Behavior Survey conducted by Emerson Hospital paints a troubling picture: Bullying and depression are on the rise, and alarmingly 3% of students self-reported bringing a weapon to school, including guns (page 29 of the survey).

The connection is undeniable. For too long, many of us have had the privilege of looking away, but silence and inaction only reinforce the status quo. We cannot continue to ignore these realities. If real progress is our goal, confronting these issues head-on must be a priority. 

Every citizen is responsible for creating a safer, more inclusive environment for all students. This is a wonderful community, full of good and decent people. Now is the time to prove it — through meaningful action, not just words. Start by voting for Michael Williams. 

Marc Girolimetti

Wright Road