WESTFIELD – In the aftermath of the presidential election, a large number of Massachusetts citizens have created a safe haven movement on social media.
The movement is strongly suggesting that people throughout the state call Gov. Baker’s Boston and Springfield offices and urge the Governor to declare Massachusetts as a safe haven from hate.
In fact, reported by WGBH News on Nov. 15, both of Gov. Baker’s offices received a total of 6,000 phone calls from individuals of the online group on Nov. 14.
Tufts University Professor, Karina Meiri, helped with the call-in effort. Speaking with the WGBH News, Meiri explained what the social media group wants to see get accomplished.
“We want Gov. Baker to make the same kind of formal statement on behalf of Massachusetts and we find it very surprising and kind of worrying that he hasn’t come out with a formal statement yet,” said Meiri.
Further into the article from WGBH, Gov. Baker’s Communications Director, Lizzy Guyton, made a statement in response to the phone calls.
“The Baker-Polito Administration rejects all forms of racism and discrimination and is committed to protecting the rights of all individuals, regardless of background, to ensure Massachusetts remains a welcoming place to live, work and raise a family.”
JOHN VELIS
The safe haven from hate would include any discrimination from race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, and ethnicity.
Sen. Humason gave his thoughts on people throughout the state urging Gov. Baker to declare Massachusetts as a safe haven from hate. (WNG File Photo)
Here in Western Massachusetts, local politicians have spoken out about the request made by several citizens. While they certainly don’t support discrimination of any kind, they don’t see how a declaration from Gov. Baker would make an impact.
“What have we accomplished other than words on a piece of paper?” said State Rep. John Velis.
Sen. Don Humason is unsure if the declaration will make a difference on discrimination happening throughout the state of Massachusetts.
“I don’t know if making some declaration is going to change that,” said Humason. “I don’t think it’s even necessary.”
While the outcome of the presidential election may have upset some people, Velis believes that the focus has to go elsewhere.
“At a certain point in time, we need to move on,” said Velis. “We definitely need to focus on things that are for the betterment of our country.”
Sen. Humason represents the 2nd Hampden and Hampshire District which includes Agawam, Chicopee, Easthampton, Granville, Holyoke, Montgomery, Russell, Southwick, Tolland, and Westfield. State Rep. Velis represents the 4th Hampden District.
State Rep. Nick Boldyga, who supports the towns of Southwick, Agawam, and Granville, was unable to comment at this time.
