June 15, 2025
The handwritten letter referred to the councilwoman’s hair as ‘nappy’ whereas calling her a racial slur.
The native leaders of Huntsville, Alabama have shared statements condemning a racist letter despatched to a metropolis councilwoman.
District 1 Councilwoman Michelle Watkins acquired the nameless hate message, which refers to her as a racial slur, at her council workplace. The creator then informed her to “repair your nappy head” amongst different verbal assaults that sparked a response from native management. Based on News19, the handwritten letter was signed as “Tennessee Valley” and postmarked June 9.
“Is my hair nappy,” questioned Watkins on Fb. ” I acquired this immediately by way of the mail on the Metropolis of Huntsville.
Watkins is the primary Black lady elected to the Council. She additionally serves as one in every of two Black individuals presently on the physique. Mayor Tommy Battle known as the matter “malicious” as he condemned the hateful rhetoric. Town has a big Black inhabitants, accounting for practically 30% of residents in accordance with U.S. Census Knowledge.
“I noticed the malicious assault on Council Member Michelle Watkins, and it makes me mad,” expressed the mayor. “I condemn and detest this sort of assault. Our group is a lot better than what that message displays. The Metropolis denounces this incident within the strongest phrases. Everybody deserves to be handled with dignity and respect.”
The problem has additionally led to the native NAACP chapter’s involvement. The Huntsville-Madison County NAACP Department #5034 “unequivocally condemns” the letter, calling it an assault on the general public servant.
“This act of hatred isn’t solely a private assault on a devoted public servant, but in addition an assault on the values of fairness, justice, and dignity that we, as a society, should uphold,” shared the department.
The assertion continued, noting how racist harassment and violence continues to plague communities throughout the US.
“This incident is a stark reminder that racism stays a persistent risk in our communities, and it should be confronted with braveness and unity,” the assertion added. “We name on native authorities to analyze this matter totally and to carry these accountable accountable. We additionally urge group members to talk out towards hate, to help these focused by racism, and to work collectively to construct a extra inclusive and simply society.”
Neither the mayor nor the NAACP department have confirmed by way of their statements if an investigation will launch on the matter.
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