Dear Editor:
As president of the Hoboken Branch of NAACP, it is imperative that I write this letter to express my concern regarding the unprofessional behavior of Mr. Ruben Ramos, the newly installed City Council president.
On Wednesday, July 17, I attended the City Council meeting, and I witnessed an inappropriate “staged academy award winning performance” by Mrs. Annie Forbes attacking Lynda Walker. Mr. Ramos did not make any attempt to direct her to the appropriate forum or bring order to the meeting. I am sure that Mr. Ramos was aware of the nature of Mrs. Forbes’ complaint, prior to her speaking, and should have advised her accordingly. Mrs. Forbes’ complaint should have been addressed at the Hoboken Housing Authority meeting, if indeed, she has a complaint at all.
It was obvious that Mr. Forbes’ performance was produced and directed by the same individuals who foiled an attempt the previous week to suspend Mr. Troy Washington, Executive Director of the Hoboken Housing Authority. This is very suspect!
This scenario was nothing more than a ridiculous display of “Willie Lynch Syndrome” it is perfectly clear to me that: Mrs. Annie Forbes is being used, as Lynda Walker was used by the same “players” of Hoboken United. In all 26 years I lived in the city of Hoboken, I have never seen Hoboken so divided!
Mayor David Roberts’ administration in its infancy of one year, has displayed a very narrow political vision, short ranged and without political direction or concern for all the citizens.
To date, I have no feeling of elation about what has been accomplished by Mayor Roberts’ administration — it lacks political values — the platform, which Hoboken United ran on, was nothing more than a campaign strategy to win the citizens’ support. Mayor Roberts’ administration is doing every thing it accused the previous administration of two-fold. Nepotism is running rapid throughout City Hall.
In my (many) personal experiences, I can attest to the fact that Mayor David Roberts’ administration is certainly not inclusive, diverse (there are no African-Americans in an elected position) and invites citizen’s participation. Case in point: City Council Wednesday, July 17 — I was denied the opportunity to speak during the “public session” of the City Council meeting by Mr. Ruben Ramos, the new City Council president — that was a violation of my civil rights.
In closing, I remain committed to the struggle for equality — we cannot have peace without justice; I will continue to defend democracy.
Carrie Gilliard, President
Hoboken Branch of NAACP