Style Weekly
City Hall Civility Is Good Sign, Not Bad
I strongly object to the tone and premise of "Do Not Disturb". The very idea that the goal to work together collegially is "passive," "clear sailing" for the mayor, even "nauseating," is exactly what is wrong with our society. Since when does a desire to work together mean that each of our representatives cannot think for himself or herself? Different perspectives and the ability to express oneself civilly without the "bluster" attributed to former City Council members is a recipe for a governing body that functions well for the greater benefit of the city.
Worse are all the remarks attributing race and gender as qualifications for representation. I agree with Editor and Publisher of the Richmond Free Press Ray Boone's statement: "I believe in the marketplace of ideas, and the more perspectives that you have and diversity of viewpoints, the better society can be served." However, we are not monolithic thinkers based on our gender or our skin color. Surely we have matured beyond that! I like to see a mix of men and women and colors (how about our Asian and Hispanic citizens?), but let's not stay in the old ruts of our racist past. The ward or district system of government insures a diversity of perspective.
I am not worried that the current City Council are yes men or women. They are simply coming into office with a desire to be productive, civil representatives of their districts and their city. For that, I am grateful.
Jean White
Richmond
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