Dr. Khaled Elleithy, president of the Bridgeport Islamic Community Center, writes in a letter to Mayor Joe Ganim, “I am writing to express the deep concern and disappointment of our congregation in response to the recent racist remarks made by Councilwoman Maria Pereira in her letter to colleagues and yourself.
Dear Mayor Joseph P. Ganim,
I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits. I am writing to express the deep concern and disappointment of our congregation in response to the recent racist remarks made by Councilwoman Maria Pereira in her letter to colleagues and yourself. Such behavior is not an exemplary quality of an elected official, especially one entrusted with representing the diverse community of Bridgeport.
It is disheartening to witness an elected representative rejecting a democratic process and resorting to divisive language, particularly at a time when our religious leaders from various faiths are united in their call for peace. The fact that representatives of the Jewish community and four rabbis supported the final ceasefire resolution while Councilwoman Pereira displayed difficulty embracing it is both ironic and troubling.
Furthermore, we find it crucial to highlight that Councilwoman Maria Pereira has a documented history of multiple misconduct throughout her tenure in public office. Her actions have consistently crossed the line, and there have been instances where she has been accused of breaking the law. Such a pattern of behavior raises serious concerns about her suitability to continue serving in a position of public trust. This behavior and rhetoric are unacceptable reflections of the city of Bridgeport and its citizens. We believe such actions tarnish the image of Bridgeport and erode constituents’ trust in their elected officials.
Considering these circumstances, we respectfully request Councilwoman Maria Pereira’s immediate resignation or, if deemed appropriate by the council, a decisive action to oust her from her position. At a minimum, we urge the council to censure Maria Pereira formally. It is crucial for the integrity of our local government, and the well-being of our community that swift and decisive measures are taken to address this issue. Additionally, our community strongly desires to attend the council meeting when discussing this matter. We believe it is important to actively engage in the democratic process and witness firsthand the actions taken by our elected representatives in response to such serious concerns.
We trust that you and the council will carefully consider this matter and take the necessary steps to uphold the values of fairness, respect, and unity that our community deserves. We appreciate your attention to this urgent matter and await a swift resolution.
Thank you for your time and commitment to the well-being of the City of Bridgeport.
Sincerely,
Dr. Khaled Elleithy, Ph.D.
President
“If any one of them EVER harasses or Lopez verbally or physically again, they will regret it. That is an absolute promise…”
Breaking News:
The Connecticut Department of Mental Health has found the cause of Bridgeport City Council member Maria Pereira’s “Absolute” Promises. Click on the link below:
https://youtu.be/sApCubpdWBM?si=e0rMC6NxvJQfqf7N
At the most recent three City Council Public Speaking sessions, there have been ten or more folks signed up and ready to address the Council. As a regular speaker and observer of these sessions, I register to speak with the City Clerk office in advance usually, a reason for my name being called first frequently.
The size of the audience has been large with focus on the Middle East armed conflict in Gaza. But attendees are peaceable for the most part though through signs, banners, and dress they can be identified with the petition issue presented to the City Council.
Time is always of the essence to CC members and they must listen to and respond to constituents in each of their districts on local issues over which they have authority, responsibility, and oversight. There are always larger issues that may or may not exist in their District but that are called to their attention like this one. But time to respond in a public manner is very limited for hearing by and comprehension by the public. Relative to this example, how will their new system of Q&A work? What is the City expense? What are the results of the initial six month trial that perhaps exists now? Who tracks this subject?
I do not remember coarse, insulting, vile and severely critical language used in public regularly when I initially began to attend meetings. Of course I have not been present in the caucus room,limited to the Council, where the making of “sausage” is often conducted. But divisive and aggressive words and symbolic gestures such as captured by camera are certainly ouf of place on the public stage. Necessary sanctions must follow as night follows day, so that conequences are prompt and without further debate. Authentic apoligies need to be part of discourse. If respect and trust are expected, they must be learned by all and the Council members must be examples of a high moral ground.
Council members are of adult age. They need to exhibit adult behavior including self-control over responsive self-expression. This is not about ‘freedom of speech’, but rather a duty to be a legislator for every City person, seeking understanding of the issues, justice and equality for all, and opportunity to participate in the body politic as part of the overall community. Time will tell.
But, what to do when “Absolut” insanity takes control?