Call hurt us, rather than protect

Editor:

Something happened in our little village of Creemore that I cannot ignore. A man in our community – a kind, gentle, deeply caring massage therapist who works in my building – was simply going about his day. He is not just a massage therapist, but a healer. He helps people feel better in their bodies and lighter in their spirits. He is one of those people who makes our village warmer just by being here and embodies what makes this community so special.

And yet, someone called the police on him. Why? Because they thought his presence was “suspicious.” The only thing “suspicious” about him, it seems, was that he is Black.

Pause for a moment and imagine this: you are in your place of work, in your own community, offering your incredible service, and someone decides that your very existence is a threat. How would that feel? How safe would you feel, moving forward, in a town you call home?

The truth is, this call didn’t protect our community – it hurt it. It sent the message that some people are not seen for who they truly are, but instead through the lens of fear and prejudice. That is not the Creemore we tell ourselves we are.

Creemore comes from the Gaelic for “big heart.” We love to think of ourselves as a village with a big heart: welcoming, safe, and kind. But a big heart does not turn against its neighbours. A big heart does not assume the worst because of the colour of someone’s skin.

This is a moment for reflection. For honesty. For us to ask: Are we truly living up to that name? Or are we letting bias and fear undermine what makes this place special?

The man who was targeted that day is an invaluable member of our community and deserves so much more. He deserves to know he is valued, that he is welcome, and that he is safe here. And we, as a community, deserve more as well. We deserve to be able to look at ourselves and say: yes, we are a town with a big heart – and we prove it not just with words, but with our actions.

To the person who made that call: I hope you take time to reflect on what your actions meant. Andtotherestofus,Ihopewetakethisasa reminder to be vigilant not in fear of our neighbours, but in love for them. Let’s live up to our name, and truly be the Creemore with a big heart.

Jacquie Rushlow,

Dunedin.