An open letter to Mayor Malcolm Brodie,
As a life-long citizen of Richmond, a teacher of 10 years and a parent of two terrific kids, I am writing to express my utter disappointment in our mayor for not speaking publicly about the crisis in BC Public Education.
I contacted the mayor regarding my concerns, but my emails went unacknowledged. I then asked my question on his Facebook wall but my message was erased.
I commend Vancouver Mayor Gregor Robertson who publicly stood up for the thousands of students, families and teachers affected by the strike. He demanded binding arbitration — the fastest and fairest solution to this crisis. His public statement demonstrates a deep concern for all citizens in his city.
I am dumbfounded as to why Mr. Brodie chose to skirt this critical issue.
A few years back, Richmond was named the best Canadian city to live in. We now boast the highest child poverty rate in Canada, with one in five children considered statistically poor — shame!
The strike is finally over; however during the three months that I was locked out, I grew increasingly worried for those students who are not adequately fed or loved at home. School has always been a safe haven for our vulnerable youth. I shudder to think of the deplorable living conditions that these innocent victims were forced to endure while the government refused to even attempt a reasonable compromise.
Mayor Brodie’s mission statement: “Leadership, Experience and Vision.” He failed to show any of these qualities to the citizens of Richmond. As mayor, it is your responsibility to practice what you preach. Your inaction, your misplaced allegiances, will be remembered come voting day by Richmond voters.
Kathy Milot
Richmond
