To the editor:

Last week there were two letters in the Phoenix that covered a talk by Erica Sanzi sponsored by the Bristol County Concerned Citizens (BCCC), but the two letters were quite different in tone.

One, by David Scarpino, was “Differing views share space at Bristol talk,” and the other, by Mike Proto, was “Candidates should disclose advocacy affiliations.” Mr. Scarpino’s letter factually covered Ms. Sanzi’s talk on current education issues. He gave tribute to the civil discourse and give-and-take in the question-and-answer period. It was a positive and uplifting letter, celebrating that reasonable people can differ and still share ideas amicably.

On the other hand, Mr. Proto’s letter was divisive and loaded with factual inaccuracies. In a negative, ad hominem attack, he characterized the speaker as “Erica Sanzi, a self-proclaimed education expert and proponent of charter schools, homeschooling, and school vouchers,” adding that Ms. Sanzi is best known for her “radical” ideas on public education.  

Ms Sanzi's comment on being labeled a “self-proclaimed education expert” is: “If you ever hear me say anything like that, you will know I am either being held hostage or have lost my mind!” 
There are many citizens here in Bristol and nationwide who consider Ms. Sanzi an outstanding education expert, citizens who also support charters, home schooling and vouchers to provide a proven alternative and good education for their children.

Gratuitously attacking Ms. Sanzi does nothing to advance the civil discussion to improve the quality of education. BCCC and many others believe it’s within our reach.

In Providence, where student scores are sadly below proficient, there is little or no choice beyond a district plagued with issues. Many see this as the civil rights issue of our time.

Mr. Proto then criticizes the BCCC for hosting a talk by Rep. Patricia Morgan, who he claims is best known for her numerous racist and homophobic public comments. I don’t know if Mr. Proto has ever met Representative Morgan or listened to her talk, but his accusations are without merit.  

Finally, he lashes out to the BCCC and to candidates he claims are affiliated with the BCCC. The BCCC has favored candidates in the past but does not officially endorse any candidates. The BCCC is made up of Democrats, Republicans, Independents and Libertarians, and the BCCC favors all those who share our values. We have been honest and open with the voters, and we hope to help voters make informed decisions.  

Michael Byrnes
Walley Street
Mr. Byrnes is the Vice Chair of Bristol County Concerned Citizens