Let’s not discourage volunteerism ‘due to the implicit bias of ageism’

Quoting the February 27 Bridge headline, ‘Money, MCI, age in play as Select Board race revs up,’ I argue that age or ageism is a class of discrimination, even in politics. Candidates who play the age card may think they are appealing to younger voters under the assumption that issues that need to be addressed can only be accomplished by young candidates.

You stated that four out of five members of the current Select Board are retirees. Older board members are advantaged, not just by their experience, but more importantly they have the time and economic means to be fully engaged in the duties of their office. They are unpaid volunteers. Their service is a Acton town tradition. 

A recent example of dedication was 2024-25 Select Board Chairman Henry Dane. He oversaw the exemplary organization and execution of the 250th anniversary celebration. He led the fight to provide property tax exemptions to homeowners who are hard-pressed to pay rising tax bills. Leadership requires respect and the ability to get things done. Working hard in your later years is reward enough. At the time, Henry told me he was having “the time of his life.” We should never discourage anyone who wants to serve the town from volunteering due to the implicit bias of ageism.

We should support those candidates, regardless of their age, who embrace change that we see as needed. The only question that matters is whether the changes a candidate embraces will make the town better. 

My favorite quote is by newly elected President John F. Kennedy: “Ask not what your country can do for you — ask what you can do for your country.” 

We all are capable of serving our town. We just need to find the right opportunity.

Reading The Bridge is where to start.

Edward Larner 

Elsinore Street

The author is a member of the Acton Housing Authority board and the Community Preservation Committee, writing on his own behalf.