We are in the midst of a momentous election.  Matters of great importance are at stake at every level.  Because the lines of conflict are less partisan and less clearly drawn at the local level, we may fail to recognize how critical it is that J.H. Atkins be returned to the city commission.

No other candidate matches his long and distinguished career as a professional educator at every level.  Only one candidate has had longer service on the commission. No other candidate better hears and represents more diverse portions of the electorate.  No other candidate exceeds his commitments to social justice, racial equality, and the common good.

We have a strong slate of candidates, all worthy of support.  I am not disparaging them.  I am only extolling the strength of the Atkins qualifications.

My assessment of J.H. precedes the fact that he and Artie are close neighbors and good friends.  We go back a long way.  All four of our daughters benefited from having him as a teacher, principal, or coach. I have long worked with him as he leads Citizens Concerned for Human Relations. I helped launch his first campaign.  I have regularly knocked on doors for him.  I have followed his work on the commission closely.  I have appreciated his vision for Danville’s future and his openness to change.

Let’s not take him for granted. Let’s make sure that we continue to benefit from his leadership and character.

 

Eric Mount

Danville