A neighbor recently drafted a thoughtful letter expressing her dismay at the divisive tactics emerging in Harvard’s town politics, a stark departure from the civility she has known here for over 50 years. She highlighted a troubling campaign to discredit Don Ludwig by labeling him a bigot, based on his social media posts from years past that critiqued certain political figures. These posts, which never incited violence or hatred, have been exaggerated to fuel a narrative. Mr. Ludwig’s comments were tame when compared to comments made by many prominent political figures, yet they’ve been weaponized to vilify him.
My neighbor also noted the appearance of street signs attacking Mr. Ludwig and anonymous letters sent to signers of his nomination papers just days before the election, seemingly intended to intimidate his supporters. Such tactics erode the trust and openness that define our community.
Sadly, she chose not to submit her letter, fearing retaliation from those who might justify extreme actions against those with differing views or who happen to own the wrong type of EV. Is this the political climate we want in Harvard, where fear silences honest dialogue?
Regardless of political leanings, we should reject intimidation, slander, and cancel culture in our town’s politics. Let’s restore respectful discourse and focus on ideas, not personal attacks.
John Knowles
Walnut Street, Devens
