By: Suzanne MacRae
Until a few weeks ago, the Spring of 2022 local campaigns for positions in Dedham town government seemed like an important matter in our lives. Now they feel mundane as our attentions are focused on Eastern Europe: the viability of a sovereign fledgling democracy, the destruction of the lives of millions of innocent Ukrainian citizens and the future of geo-politics.
While these events are distressing, I am heartened and inspired by the resolve and bravery of the Ukrainian people and President Zelensky to confront an ignoble foe and by their defiant stance of no capitulation, inspire the world to join and support them.
We are reminded in times of crisis and uncertainty that we need leaders with confidence, perseverance, experience, tenacity, and kindness to shepherd us through difficult periods and inspire us to be the best citizens and humans we can be. We need only peruse the papers these days to see the repercussions of rash, ill-informed and egotistical decisions on our government and the ruin of lives of those who were influenced by them.
As other contributors to the column have acknowledged, we are fortunate to live in a town of involved and passionate citizens who are willing to sacrifice volumes of their time to run for office and then serve their community. Leadership at the local level is not glamorous and it can be downright tedious and frustrating. But these candidates are committed to improving and sustaining the lives of those who reside here and for this, we should be thankful. While we may not be united our ideals, we need to remember that we are one town, one nation and one humanity.
During this uncertain time, I will cast my vote for Erin Boles Welsh for Dedham Town Selectboard. She has demonstrated the quiet perseverance and commitment to navigate Dedham through good times and bad and her ambitions will carry the town into the future while drawing inspiration and strength from the past. Please vote on April 9.
Sincerely,
Suzanne MacRae