To the Editor,
I am writing to speak clearly and respectfully about an issue that has deeply affected both myself and many others in our community: the growing concern around a culture of silence in Riverhead.
Taking a stand against silence culture is not about conflict; it is about accountability, transparency, and ensuring that every voice in our community is valued. When individuals feel discouraged from speaking up, it weakens trust and prevents meaningful progress. I am grateful to see community leaders and organizations, including Legislator Greg Doroski and the AAECF, standing alongside me in reinforcing that we must do better and that open dialogue is essential.
I also stand with Minerva Perez, founder of OLA of Eastern Long Island, and her community initiative to uplift and support residents while working alongside local law enforcement. Unfortunately, our committee missed an important opportunity to engage directly with her and her organization regarding community concerns surrounding ICE. That missed opportunity, in my view, was a direct result of the silence culture that has limited necessary conversations at a time when they are most needed.
I will be honest this experience has impacted my quality of life. I took great pride in my role and in serving this community, and it has been difficult to navigate a situation where speaking up for what is right has come with personal and professional challenges. However, my commitment remains unchanged. I will continue to advocate for unity, respect, and truth.
There have been moments that underscore why this matters. I was advised by an Assembly member to remove a post in which I spoke out against harmful rhetoric after seeing a widely circulated image depicting the Obamas as apes. That moment reinforced for me that silence is not an option when it comes to standing against hate and protecting the dignity of all people.
This is bigger than any one person; it is about the future of Riverhead. We must be a community that encourages voices, not suppresses them; that addresses concerns openly, not quietly; and that prioritizes doing what is right over what is comfortable.
Let’s get this right.
Sincerely,
Mark “MK” McLaughlin
McLaughlin is the form
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