Letter to the editor: Mt. Pleasant’s reputation ruined
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I was born in Mt. Pleasant. My great-grandfather established Mt. Pleasant Foundry. My grandfather and uncles served as volunteers in the fire department. I still have family living in the area, and I have maintained friendships established though my church, neighborhood and school.
I have waited to write a letter to the editor in hopes that my anger would subside after reviewing the hideous video depicting political violence in the Halloween parade, designed to entertain children and residents of Mt. Pleasant. The video was vile and has prompted negative news attention nationally.
I have always had such a tremendous sense of pride in my hometown. A small town that celebrates its history with festivals, and memorials that commemorate those who served in the military. When talking about my hometown I would describe it as a small community at the foot of the Laurel Highlands, an area known for hiking, biking, rafting, camping and skiing, and a tourist destination for Frank Lloyd Wright enthusiasts.
The outsider’s view of my hometown has been destroyed with a depiction of political violence. The reputation of Mt. Pleasant has been ruined. It will take years upon years to undo the damage done with a few seconds of video.
The mayor and fire chief have apologized. County political leaders have denounced the portrayal of political violence from any group. The perpetrators of this display now need to come forward. They have disgraced the citizens of Mt. Pleasant, their family and friends. Mt. Pleasant is a small community and by now everyone knows the bad actors.
Anna M. Helkowsky
West Bloomfield, Mich.