Newsletter - Oct. 5th, 2005
 

My friends, it does not end here.

Four months ago, we began a campaign for change with no name recognition, no money, and having never run for elected office before. All we had was heart and shoe leather.

Last night the results were not what we wanted, but the principles remain. Do not be discouraged because I am not. Do not let last night’s result dampen your enthusiasm for this community. It does not for me.

The results simply told us us that we will not be making that change from the mayor’s office, and that we must bring change in other ways.

Thank you to all those who contributed so much to our cause. I will always remember this experience. I will always remember you.

I especially want to thank Kristin and my three children. At the end of the day our campaign was about the future of all of our children. That mission will never, can never, die.

I learned many important lessons about the character of our community. I didn’t think it was possible, but I love this city more today than when I started this endeavor four months ago.

We have made history because this campaign is one that has reached out to people of all ages, all neighborhoods, all races and ethnic groups, and all classes. There is one thing that binds us together, a real belief that New Bedford can be a great place to raise a family, open a small business, and build a future if we all pull together and make it happen.

Last night we celebrated what we have accomplished together. But let us not forget that this campaign – this journey – has never been about one person. It has been about a community – all of you. So after getting a little rest, let us once again get back to work to help bring real and relevant change to this great city.

We all can start by supporting Scott Lang’s candidacy for mayor in the final election. Scott represents many of our hopes and aspirations, and he will surely be unrelenting in his effort to advance our community.

Last night I visited Scott at his well-earned victory party. I have always believed that a person can be measured by the way they win and lose. I can tell you that Scott and his team of supporters won last night with grace and humility. They won with sincere appreciation for all of the work that we did.

I also want to congratulate Mayor Kalisz. These have been difficult years for New Bedford. While we may disagree on many things, there is no question that the mayor has been a dedicated public servant. This campaign has expanded my respect for all those who are willing to place their name on a ballot.

To Dennis Dallaire, Mark Howland and every other candidate for whom the campaign ended last night, and to every volunteer who held signs, made phone calls, licked envelopes and knocked on doors for them, I want you to know how much I respect their contribution to the democratic process.

Winston Churchill once said, all we have to give is our blood, our sweat and our tears. My friends, we gave our all and our community is better for it.

Thank you.

Matt Morrissey