STATEMENT TO THE PRESS FEBRUARY 2, 2014 Good Morning. Thank you for joining us here today. First, I would like to recognize my wife, family, supporters, my pastor, Andre McGhee, and the pastors representing Michiana Ministers Coalition. I am here this morning to publicly address an unfortunate mistake regarding a blog and image posted to my personal Facebook page. The blog post and accompanying image, written by Reunion Black Family, was an attempt to start a discussion on a reading that jarred my sensibilities. Although posted to my Facebook page, it is not an expression of my personal or political views. Many people have found it offensive. It was a mistake on my part and for that I am truly remorseful and I ask for your forgiveness. Social Media has the ability to bring people together and it has the ability to create division. With that said, I would like to address the discourse on social media between those who love and support me and my leadership and others who were offended by the posting. I truly believe that in order to address the disparities that exist in our great city we must be unified. The high unemployment rate, the operation of the new voting centers and how these centers will impact voting throughout the city and the county, the sometimes inequitable distribution of city resources and services, the lack of a defined relationship between the school system and city government, and citizen concerns regarding public safety can only be overcome with a unified voice and through collective efforts. Unfortunately, this situation has served as a distraction from discussions about making our city great for every resident. As your 2nd District Common Councilman, I remain committed to serving the residents of South Bend. My constituents are very important to me, I will continue to advocate for you and we can move past this slippage in judgment.
Posted on: Mon, 03 Feb 2014 15:57:01 +0000