WE ARE THE 99%: REJECT THE FTR

Over the next few days the onslaught of pros and cons on the FTR will surface as Nov. 8th gets closer. As an advocate for community, education, democracy and for majority, I encourage my friends and neighbors to look at the heart of what will happen if the FTR is passed.

Look past the power struggles, look past the nasty comments, look past the pseudonyms and threats, look past the over exaggerated numbers used to scare and alarm and look into the real heart of what is at stake if we, the majority give up our right to vote. If we, the 99% give up our voice to the 1%. If we, who care about programs and services that enrich, provide and educate is suddenly left up to a select few. Look past wanting to be "right". Look past wanting to "win". Look into what we will have to sacrifice if the very fiber of what holds a community together is ripped at the seams.

We are the 99% who care about how we grow. As a town, as a network, as a neighborhood, as a school, as a family, a sports team. We are the 99% who realize the current FTM is NOT the solution- but we are willing to find one that serves us better as we progress. We are the 99% who work, who struggle, who look out for one another, who care about our children, who understand the power of choice and voice. We are the 99% who may have disagreements with each other,but are willing to listen, who complain about taxes, who work two jobs, who stay at home, who tuck someone in at night, who teach compassion, science, math, art, history and what it means to stand up for what you believe in. We put out fires, rescue, defend, protect and serve. We are the 99% who know the value of books, technology, updated programs and services. We are single family, extended family, blended family. We are individuals who seek what is right and just for the greater good-the common man, woman and child; and not for what is good for just a select few. We attend soccer games, basketball practice, theater productions,debates, meetings and church. We care when someone we love is hurting. We offer help when someone has fallen.

We are community. We are the majority. We are the 99%. Don't let the 1% take this away.

Gloria Crist
Tiverton, RI