In regards to the April 1 article “Lawsuit challenges divestment resolution,” I would like to commend Northampton City Councilors Jeremy Dubs and Rachel Maiore, and former councilor Stanley Moulton for recommending this divestment resolution. They acted as democratically elected representatives by fulfilling the wishes of their constituents. Like the chant says “Show me what Democracy looks like! This is what Democracy looks like!”
We elect council members that represent our values. This resolution to divest city funds passed unanimously. Now we have unelected outside groups subverting our democratic process? This is a dangerous precedent that serves to silence the voices of the people of Northampton. To reference the final line of the article, an article which heavy-handedly quotes three representatives from organizations bringing the lawsuit while only quoting one representative of a group that brought the resolution, “We stand with the local taxpayers who are calling for a return to sound, lawful municipal governance that respects the boundaries of city authority.” Those bringing the lawsuit are not respecting “municipal governance” or “city authority.” If the City Council does not have jurisdiction to decide how city funds are allocated, what is their role?
Peter LaBrusciano
Florence