Willingboro Mayor Samantha Whitfield Reaffirms Township’s Commitment to Diversity, Inclusiveness
Photo courtesy of Samantha Whitfield
AC JosepH Media
WILLINGBORO – Mayor Samantha Whitfield issued a statement last week reaffirming the township’s unwavering commitment to being a diverse, inclusive, and welcoming community for all after Councilwoman Rebecca Perrone made comments some believed were stereotypical against Mexican Americans.
Willingboro released the statement on May 14 after Whitfield issued it a council meeting on Cinco de Mayo, May 5.
“I understand that many people were hurt and disappointed by the remarks that were made and by what followed afterward,” Whitfield said in her statement.
“I want to be clear that those comments do not reflect the values of this Township or the views of the council as a whole, We believe in treating all people with dignity and respect.”
According to NJ.com, during a discussion on landscaping work, Perron said, “Mexicans know what to do with grass,” in April and refused to apologize at the May 5 meeting, saying her comments were not offensive and actually meant as a compliment.
Perrone, a Latina who described herself of Guatemalan and Puerto Rican, also made comments about the height of landscapers, according to the publication. The comments drew condemnation from some residents, but Perrone continued to defend them.
“I understand that many people were hurt and disappointed by the remarks that were made and by what followed afterward,” Whitfield said. “I want to be clear that those comments do not reflect the values of this Township or the views of the Council as a whole, said Mayor Whitfield. “In Willingboro, we believe in treating all people with dignity and respect.”
Whitfield encouraged residents to continue “engaging with local leadership and participating in community conversations that promote unity and mutual respect.”
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