Dear Editor:

Recent displays of bigotry and violence around the country have left few communities untouched, further agitating some of our nation’s deepest and oldest wounds. The Aug. 17 terrorist attack in Barcelona was another sobering reminder that threats to open and accepting societies exist throughout the world.

These issues were brought to our doorsteps last week by people who targeted Boothbay Harbor and other nearby towns for distribution of KKK fliers. Their actions provided a disturbing and important reminder that the fight for equality is not occurring in some far-off place. It is playing out in neighborhoods across the country – including our own.

As a global research institute, we at Bigelow Laboratory value openness, mutual respect, and diversity of thought. They are central to our mission to improve the world through our science, and we enthusiastically engage with collaborators and students from all backgrounds, races, ethnicities, religions, and gender identities.

At any given time, our staff and visiting students represent more than 10 nationalities. We live as well as work here, so we know that our values are largely shared by our fellow community members. We also know this is a battle without a frontline, and it is happening all around us. The fliers likely came from people who don’t live here, but their intolerant ideas have a home in almost every town.

I encourage everyone to let these events strengthen our resolve to remain a friendly and open community for all. Show your support for diversity. Stand up for equality. Together, we can let the world know that prejudice and intolerance in any form are not welcome here.

Ben Twining, Interim Executive Director

Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences