Letter: Conversations about racism make us uncomfortable, but are necessary

I was baffled when I read your ‘Speak Out’ column in the Aug. 27 newspaper and the outrageous claim that I think “all cops are bastards.” Apparently, a Facebook post that I shared from Black Lives Matter on June 26 — not authored — and meant to be informational included the acronym ACAB.

I now know what this stands for and regret that I didn't know it at the time I shared the post. I strongly disagree with that sentiment and believe that most people who are protesting with the BLM movement don’t agree with it either.

But then, the post was not about me and my views. It was meant to be read by those wishing to gain an understanding of where the Black Lives Matter movement was coming from in the wake of the George Floyd killing. The post, which is longer than the printout that’s being circulated around town with the intent of misrepresenting my views, had a lot in it for us to think about concerning racism in our country.

It’s way off base for people to think that I harbor ill feelings towards our police officers or my friend, Sen. Cindy Coyne. That assertion couldn’t be further from the truth.

Conversations about racism make us uncomfortable, and that was the point of sharing the post. We need to listen to understand how others perceive the world. Over the past several months, we have learned more and more how racism, overt and subtle, is deeply ingrained in our society.

We must dismantle systems that hinder progress for Black Americans and make a more just world for everyone. Conversations about racism are necessary. The values inherent to the society we pass on to the next generation depend on these dialogues.

Susan R. Donovan
Bristol

Ms. Donovan is state representative for District 69 running for re-election.