Letters to the Editor

Redistricting debate needs more voices of color

As you know, the census numbers were released in March and there was a significant increase in people of color across the state — 46 percent increase in both the Asian and Latino populations and a 23 percent increase in the black population.

With the release of these numbers, the Joint Committee on Redistricting has launched a series of meetings across the state as the first step in the redistricting process in Massachusetts. District lines are redrawn block by block, altering the districts for the State House of Representatives, State Senate, Congressional and Governor’s Council. Our legislators have this power, and in the past have abused their power by packing minority groups together, and weakening minority voting power.

It’s up to all of us to be engaged and make sure that our community has an equal voice in this political debate. A fair redistricting process gives communities the ability to engage in issues related to health care, public safety, jobs and more. Help us create a more representative government for all of Massachusetts residents. The next meeting is on May 14 at 10 a.m. at the Joseph Lee Elementary school on 155 Talbot Ave. in Dorchester.

Alejandra St.Guillen
¿Oíste?
Executive Director

More kudos to Claire Andrade-Watkins

I have just had the pleasure of watching the film “Some kind Of Funny Porto Rican” (“Cape Verdean neighborhood focus of new documentary,” Bay State Banner, April 21, 2011).

I had no idea that such a story existed, until my sister Gail told me to order it. She also told me that every Cape Verdean should have it in their household. So I ordered it.

While watching it, I can truly say that no one could have documented the story better. As I continued to watch it, I couldn’t help but recognize many of the people that I grew up with that were speaking and telling their story about Fox Point and how it was back in the day and what has transpired since. I will be sure to advise my daughter to order the disk. I left Providence when I was drafted into the Army and have been gone ever since, returning on occasions to visit loved ones and friends. However, no matter where I live, like many other Cape Verdeans, Providence will always be home to me.

Anonymous
Via e-mail

Let’s end the birther madness

I agree with President Obama that this birther silliness must stop now. America is not working, homes are going into foreclosures, the price of gas is increasing and major storms are causing devastation in our cities.

Now Donald Trump wants to find out how the president got into Harvard Law School and went on to graduate magna cum laude?

Our president has all of my confidence and I believe all of this foolishness will fade in time.

America must move on and get its act in gear. Is this the best the Republican front-runner can produce?

Kenneth J. Phillips
Durham, N.C.