Empathetic, Engaged, Experienced: I’m Voting For Manisha | Letter

The following was submitted by Amanda Cormier. Let your voice be heard by signing up for a free account and posting.

Many of people may know Manisha Bewtra from her work with the Human Rights Commission. Others may have first heard her name when she ran for Alderman-at-Large. There are even some who may be just hearing her name for the first time as she becomes more and more present as a strong contender for mayor of Melrose. But for me, she has been a familiar, smiling presence for a long time. I cannot recall if we initially met around our East Side neighborhood or if I first noticed her friendly face among the many parents dropping our children off at Winthrop Elementary.

Whenever it was that we first met, one thing that struck me right away is her thoughtful demeanor. She is the type of person that immediately makes one feel at ease. While waiting together at the 131 bus stop our conversation can range from the typical parent concerns about homework, recess, and Spirit Day activities, to more global concerns such as the environment, immigration, or public transportation. Whatever the subject, she listens carefully and responds in an intelligent and empathetic way.

As an elementary school parent and member of the Special Education Parent Advisory Council, I am paying close attention to see not just if the candidates are saying all of the “right” things about education and our school system, but also looking to see who is listening. Manisha took the time to attend a recent SEPAC meeting and she asked questions about what were our goals and objectives for the year. She really heard us when we expressed our concerns and wanted to know how she could help going forward.

On the school playground Manisha demonstrates the same level of thoughtfulness. She wants to know what is going on with after school activities and “specials” such as library, music, art, and physical education. Of course, as a parent, she has a vested interest in these subjects but her enthusiasm for our schools goes beyond her own child. She cares about the experience of all of the students in Melrose.

I could provide information about Manisha’s experience as a leader and city planner but her stellar qualifications have been much discussed by others and are readily available on her website www.manishaformelrose.com. At the end of the day, her experience and vision for the future of Melrose will play a large role in why I will vote for her on September 17. But another significant reason she has won my vote is because she recognizes that it is not just her vision that matters. She wants to hear all of us, and what matters to us, as Melrose residents, parents, children, and neighbors. I want a leader who stays curious and engaged in her community. I feel confident that that person is Manisha Bewtra.

Amanda Cormier