To the Editor:

From 1936 to 1967 Black Americans who were traveling relied on the “Negro Motorist Green-Book” to guide them through Southern “sundown towns” to the communities and hotels in which they would be safe after dark. Disregarding safety as they traveled and patronized businesses, potentially subjected them and their families to harassment, physical assault, and often death.

Rumors circulated last fall that Newtown Allies For Change (NAFC) has a list of businesses in which problematic ideology was promoted and/or racism had been witnessed first-hand. Offended Newtowners accused us of being “bullies” online and through letters to the editor. Accusations of a “witch hunt” followed, with some calling NAFC a “terrorist organization.” If addressing racism in Newtown and holding businesses accountable for their actions (or lack thereof) is the definition of “bullying” now, then so be it.

Do we keep such a list? We do not. Have members shared their experiences of racism in Newtown with one another? Of course they have. NAFC hears regularly from Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) who have experienced racial aggression directed at them (or at their children) in Newtown schools, businesses, and sports fields. Maybe it’s time to create a “Green-Book” list for our BIPOC neighbors. It would illuminate the risks before they walk into a space where they may not be valued (or treated) as equals.

People frequently make conscientious decisions about where to spend their money. Organizations like Open to All note that “building a stronger country means everyone should feel safe, respected and accepted as they live, shop, and work.” Until all our local businesses commit to creating safe and respectful spaces for BIPOC members of the community, our work as allies will not be complete.

NAFC believes that if a business owner regularly uses outrageous racist language, Black Newtown residents have the right to know; that if a white neighbor understands the culture of a restaurant or bar as one where racist jokes are welcome, they have the moral obligation to inform their BIPOC neighbors; that when anti-immigrant language by an employee is reported to the owner and no action is taken, Newtown residents deserve to know beforehand that the space is one where their money is welcome, but they are not. We do not believe that sharing information about racist behavior with families of color is “bullying.”

Business owners have the right to establish their culture and environment; customers have the right to embrace that culture, tolerate it, or boycott it. Merchants concerned about losing business to a boycott have the option to address the problematic behavior that led to it. NAFC believes that now more than ever, it is critical for BIPOC families to know where they are genuinely welcome and not at risk of being subjected to racist language or behavior.

If you have experienced or witnessed racist behavior anywhere in town, please reach out to us. If you are a merchant seeking assistance in making your business open to all, NAFC remains a resource.

On behalf of Newtown Allies for Change,

Kate McGrady

Don Lococo

Laura Maine