In the wake of Sheridan Gorman’s horrific and senseless murder, Yorktown News publisher Brett Freeman (March 26) called on readers to “come together, support one another, and help ensure Sheridan’s life is honored—and never forgotten.”
We share Mr. Freeman’s belief that this is a moment for compassion, support, and unity.
Unfortunately, some of our elected officials are taking a different approach. Rather than bringing people together, they are linking Sheridan’s murder to broader national policy debates. While those conversations may be important, using a moment of local grief to advance a political narrative risks deepening divisions and distracting from what matters most right now.
Efforts to score political points can fuel fear and mistrust in a community that is already hurting. They can also have real consequences, including the mistreatment of those who look different or are perceived to be immigrants—particularly members of our Hispanic community.
At a time like this, local leadership should unite, not divide. We can pursue justice, support those affected, and engage in thoughtful dialogue without losing sight of our shared responsibility to one another. Our community deserves leadership that prioritizes unity, empathy, and accountability.
Peter Cleary, Chair
Yorktown Democratic Committee