To the Editors:

I am writing this letter in support of the candidacies of Heather Adelman, Sharon Pearson, Linda Slocum, and Bryan Burgess for Oberlin City Council. I fortunately have some experience in Oberlin politics, and can honestly say it is at its most effective and most true to the character of the community when it surges forward. Adelman, Pearson, Slocum, and Burgess have shown an investment in new ideas, policies, and directions that open up the lungs of Oberlin, allowing the city to breathe in new opportunities. Every element of their broad, varied, and deep experiences feeds their service and commitment to the rich possibilities of our community. Whether in the areas of sustainable environmental policy, progressive economic development, or inclusive civic life, these candidates have shown themselves willing and able to break away from ideas that are more aged than effective. Oberlin is more than its past. Oberlin is more than what it has done. Oberlin has a future full of promise that will only be realized by leadership that understands that. I urge you to support leadership that looks forward to the future and vote for Heather Adelman, Sharon Pearson, Linda Slocum, and Bryan Burgess for Oberlin City Council.

– Charles Peterson
Associate Professor of Africana Studies