By O.D. Harris, vice mayor and council member, city of Chandler
Throughout this election cycle, I have been contacted by people concerned about the vitriol being exhibited in our community. I have personally experienced these cowardly and hateful attacks myself.
We’re blessed to live in Chandler and I am proud to serve our community as Vice Mayor.
During the campaign process, an overwhelming majority of residents expressed how thrilled they are with the direction we have taken in Chandler.
We’re a safe and prosperous city who celebrates our community’s heritage and innovation.
We embrace the cultural and racial diversity of residents and represent people of all backgrounds and beliefs.
However, we also have witnessed signs of intolerance and prejudice. Candidate campaign signs were defaced, damaged or removed, by an anonymous clan of people, in clear violation of state law.
This same anonymous clan ran an illegal disinformation campaign seeking not only to divide us, but to interfere in our elections. Emboldened by this clan, someone “graffitied” swastikas in downtown Chandler.
These cowardly, hateful and divisive actions do not represent the neighborly, tolerant and uplifting spirit that runs deep in our wonderful community.
Fortunately, Police identified the individual responsible and have filed charges to hold this person accountable. Our dedicated graffiti elimination team acted swiftly to remove this hate speech from our community shared space.
There are positive and productive ways to express our different opinions and perspectives, without breaking laws or disparaging people.
I urge people to remember that as we interact with people in person or online, we must hold each other accountable for our actions and our words. As leaders in the community, we cannot be silent or afraid to address hate-filled rhetoric.
As the vice mayor, I am proud to advocate for and invest in the mental health, well-being and safety of our community.
I assure you that I will always stand up for what is right and will continue work every day to protect and uplift our community.
We invite our readers to submit their civil comments on this topic. Email AZOpinions@iniusa.org.
