Summary and Update: Meeting with the Mayor's Chief of Staff

6.23 Meeting Summary 

Today I and two others (Lilliana Olivera & Athena Wagner) attended a meeting with the Mayor's Chief of Staff.  I want to be clear this is nowhere near the final step. We have not seen ANY progress towards our asks.

• At the meeting, it was made clear that if the Mayor does not want to be seen as dismissing the voices of those who signed we expect a direct statement from his office acknowledging the petition and providing his position within the next day.
• It was made clear that the asks of the petition are very direct and clear. Arguing that leaving the statue up and ignoring these demands completely contradicts the goal of "healing."
• It was made clear that this petition (and myself as its organizer) do NOT condone vandalism of the statue but safe removal in order to respect the Italian Waterburians who erected it. The city should listen to the peaceful voices of the petitioners, organizers, and activists to remove the statue. 
• The Chief of Staff, Mr. Demac, was respectful and attentive during the conversation. I appreciate that effort immensely. Though, it was made known in addition to "hearing us" we need action.
• Removing these statues is not where the change ends but it is necessary for building trust and commencing true change.

UPDATES 6.23

• 850 Signatures! Let's Get to 1000! SHARE SHARE SHARE
• Your feedback is always valuable please reach out to provide it. You can comment under updates, these comments are checked regularly and taken seriously.
• Please continue to call the Mayor's office (203)-574-6712 to share your unique perspective
• Continue to contact the media and ask them to report on this effort. Feel free to share your own perspective as well.
  • Rep-Am Newsroom: 203-574-3636 ext. 1400   communitynews@rep-am.com
  • WTNH-8 Waterbury Newsroom: 203-627-5911
  • WFSB 3 (Eyewitness News)  860-728-3333 or  860-244-1700 newsdesk3@wfsb.com

Let us Keep Up the Momentum

Sincerely,

Fizza