I am writing in support of Leticia Fraga’s re-election to Princeton Council. For a town that touts diversity, inclusion and equity on its platform of behavior it is critical that the council’s make-up reflect that core philosophy and belief.
As the only woman of color on council, Leticia has targeted critical issues facing lower income residents while also demonstrating an ability to look at issues on a variety of other levels with balance, thoughtfulness and insight.
Being both a councilwoman and a mom helps Leticia find solutions in creative ways to manage conflict and focus on the end result while navigating through the proper steps to get there. She understands the value of listening carefully and the importance of guidance and nurturing, and demonstrates that care in her deliberations and public discourse.
Leticia has done much during her two years on council, highlighted by her work in moving forward initiatives and resolutions in support of our immigrant community, access to drivers’ licenses, family reunification, and access to legal services, etc. In addition, Leticia also took part in the recruitment process of our newest officers. She advocated for and promoted diversity to ensure that our department reflects the diversity of our community. Under the direction of Chief Nicholas Sutter, our police department hired eight new officers to fill current and pending vacancies without increasing squad size. The new recruits include two Spanish-speaking officers and two women.
As soon as Leticia took a seat on the dais she hit the ground running and has been a competent leader from the very beginning. Perhaps what is most important and the reason we need to keep her on council is her guiding philosophy; Leticia is interested in leading/creating/supporting a society that knows and places value in the fact that everyone deserves a chance at having and achieving their core life needs met. These needs include access to quality public education, affordable housing (not just for our low income families but for our shrinking/missing middle, and older generation who wants to be able to age in place), and access to health care for all ages.
Leighton Newlin
Princeton