Healing immigration schism; Filling out constellation; It didn't have to happen; Prize for arrogance

Healing immigration schism


I applaud the Framingham Human Rights Commission for tackling the issue of undocumented immigrants in Framingham through a series of public forums. There is a schism in this community over the impact undocumented immigrants have had on Framingham and it must be addressed before things reach a breaking point.

As an immigration attorney I have assisted the Commission in understanding the immigration system and its many complexities. At the initial forum I explained how dysfunctional the present system is. I detailed how the employer compliance system doesn't work. While many attending the first public forum view the undocumented as lawbreakers who must be deported, we discussed the impracticality of deporting 10 to 12 million people. We also discussed the need for comprehensive immigration reform based on principles of human rights, family reunification and economic priorities.

During the forum I was struck by the polarized viewpoints expressed by many in attendance. While listening I wondered to myself, how do we get beyond this? How do we get more people engaged in this important dialogue?

The Framingham Human Relations Commission has taken a bold step down a path toward healing a community in turmoil over the issue of undocumented immigrants. Where that path leads depends upon people engaging in the process and their willingness to explore facts without pre-conceived notions. What vision do you hold for Framingham? One of an environment hostile to immigrants, or one that is welcoming and inclusive? I encourage you to attend one of the upcoming forums.


Fletcher, Tilton & Whipple


Filling out constellation


Thank you for that great story on "Shining Siblings," (Jan. 7) Andi and Matt Bushell. I just needed to point out an important observation for those who do not want to only focus on the two stars whose photos appeared and missed the full constellation that exists in time and space.

This article should have had pictures of the other three family members who are Framingham-based for they shine just as brightly in many ways and even more brightly for those of us blessed enough to bask in their light locally. Myra, the remarkable mother to all this constellation, has touched so many lives through her work and teaching that many hearts and faces lit up just seeing her name.

Becca (Rebecca) co-owns the Ron Charles Salon, as you note, but you missed putting in the bright lit adjectives her creative and caring work deserves. And you really missed out on not putting the rising young brilliant star's photo in that family gallery - Sammy!! Just to look at the light in her eyes and hear the warmth of her heart makes you aware that the Bushell family's constellation shines down all the way from coast to coast with generations of light and heat promised to go forth!




It didn't have to happen


I am writing this letter because I have not been able to sleep since the tragic stabbing death of Craig Viera on Nov. 26, 2006, at the Avalon Club in Boston.

How is it possible that Oscar Rosa, who, at the age of 15, beat a man to death and his only penalty was a slap on the wrist just because he was underage. He did no jail time. And even though the police had stated that he had a "history of mental health problems," he was never admitted to a psychiatric facility or evaluated. How is that possible? Now, five years later, he stabs to death another wonderful, unsuspecting person who was just doing his job protecting others. It is just not right.

I thank God that the murderer is in custody but again, why did the court allow a minimum bail set at $5,000 instead of a higher amount of $20,000 or more? Apparently, Suffolk District Court asked for the higher amount, but it was denied. And why was he charged with assault and battery instead of "with intent to murder?" These things just do not make any sense to me.

And because of these poor judgment decisions, an innocent man who was just trying to do his job of protecting others had to die.

And to add insult to injury, how on earth could the Beth Israel Medical Center release him with "non-life threatening injuries" only for him to pass away two days later.

The bottom lie is that if Oscar Rose had gotten mental help when he was 15, if the courts had taken everything more seriously, perhaps Craig would still be with us today.

It breaks my heart knowing that so many families, friends, workers, customers had to go through the holiday season with such sad thoughts and a hurting heart.

I believe Sybil, that Craig would be with you every step of the way in your life. No, he will not be there in person, but he will be up in heaven looking over you and all others he loved for the rest of our lives. God bless you.




Prize for arrogance


Although there are many contenders among our politicians in this Commonwealth, I nominate Tom Finneran as the poster boy for political arrogance.