02/11/21: Statement from First Selectman Vicki Tesoro:
I am aware of the social media controversy surrounding some posts made in 2020 by the Chair of our EDIT Committee prior to her assuming that role. I want to make a few points:
1. In Trumbull we have an outstanding police force and I have strongly supported all the men and women who serve and protect our Town and will continue to do so unconditionally. They deserve our respect and thanks for the great job they do.
2. Supporting our police and embracing the work of the diversity and inclusion task force are not mutually exclusive. These groups should not be pitted against each other by those who seek to build walls rather than bridges on important issues that may be difficult for some to discuss.
3. Some have expressed strong disagreement with Ms. Figueroa’s comments, and they are entitled to their opinion, as she is hers. What is not acceptable is for groups on either side of the debate to attack each other on social media without giving those involved the opportunity to explain their positions. Social media comments are subject to interpretation that often leads to misunderstandings. Neighbors feuding with one another from behind computer keyboards is not who we are or what we should be as a community. We are better than that.
This is a much overdue opportunity to bridge this divide. I have reached out to the head of the Police Union, Chief Lombardo, and Ms. Figueroa and we are working on a date and time to meet. This will be an opportunity to speak directly and listen to each other, without the raised voices and excited rhetoric which seems to dominate the local social media pages. I along with Chief Lombardo will facilitate this meeting so all perspectives can be shared in an atmosphere of mutual respect and understanding.
I have found that people of good will, when given the chance, will find common ground in a manner that builds trust, even when they may agree to disagree. This benefits everyone. Trumbull’s reputation, as a community that welcomes everyone while simultaneously supporting our wonderful police, will be strengthened.