To the editor:
During this week's redistricting hearing in Lynn, residents from across our community, small business owners, veterans, nonprofit representatives, labor leaders and lawmakers delivered a strong message of support for keeping the 6th Congressional District intact and growing.
Hundreds of citizens spoke of our contiguous communities of common interests, while also highlighting that more than that, we are truly one community that works together for the betterment of all our residents.
As a compact region with natural boundaries and shared history and culture, our communities have developed strong partnerships and alliances across fields and industries, including education, health care, transportation, veterans services, history and tourism. Our passion and dedication to our communities and our neighbors was clear to all who attended the hearing.
In addition to those dedicated local citizens who participated, Bill Luster, Leslie Gould, Ralph Sevinor, Agnes Ricko, Kathleen Pasquina, Arthur Powell, Jeff Crosby and their staffs must be applauded for their successful work in publicizing and helping to organize this hearing so it was as transparent and participatory as possible.
Further, we must recognize and thank the Joint Redistricting Committee for holding these public hearings across the state and giving the 6th District a chance to showcase our community's unique and impressive qualities. Judging from the state Senate and House panel members' comments, everyone involved should be encouraged and proud of their effort.
In the days and weeks ahead, I join you all in our continued effort to keep the historic and beloved 6th District together and growing.
John Tierney
Member of Congress
6th Massachusetts District
Salem


