Video Update for June 4
This is Mayor Paul Brodeur.
This week’s DPH public health report indicates Melrose has had 239 confirmed cases and 1931 tests. Please note these numbers and rates reflect the number of persons tested, not the total tests performed, by city/town. One person may have multiple tests. You can get more information on the DPH COVID-19 dashboard or at the COVID-19 Information Hub on the city’s web page.
In the wake of the death of George Floyd while in police custody, several Melrose residents have organized a stand out for racial equity this Sunday, June 7th , from 2-3pm on the Lynn Fells Parkway. Many have asked who the organizers are: two local high school students and two local college students with support from their parents. These organizers have asked members of the community who wish to join them to stand with their families or other members of their households along the sidewalks on both sides of the Fellsway in front of the Melrose Memorial Middle School and the Knoll.
Attendees are free to bring signs, but there will be no speaking program or march. Organizers have asked attendees to depart the area promptly at 3pm. They are planning the stand out to be a peaceful, family friendly event. Attendees are also asked to wear a mask, to maintain social distancing between families and to wash or sanitize their hands frequently. Attendees are also asked to walk or bike to the event if possible.
Some people have asked how this event can go forward during the pandemic or at this time. Others have expressed concern that it does not make sense that this event can go forward when other events that likely involve less potential for human contact are not allowed. The difference is that the right to free speech – to peacefully demonstrate, protest, rally, or stand out - is protected under the First Amendment of the US Constitution and Article 77 of the Massachusetts Declaration of Rights. The City of Melrose will always honor and support that right.
Others have raised concerns about the safety of this event, having seen reports about violence or vandalism in other cities, particularly large metropolitan areas. Recognizing those concerns, Melrose Police Chief Mike Lyle has put together a safety plan for Sunday. As the Lynn Fells Parkway is a state road and is under the jurisdiction of the Massachusetts State Police, Melrose Police as well as Massachusetts State Police will be on scene to ensure pedestrian and vehicular safety in the area. Attendees can expect to see officers and troopers in their normal uniforms. Additional resources are available should the need arise.
In addition, there are rumors circulating through the city that there is a protest march taking place on Friday night down Main Street. While there may have been some talk on social media about the possibility of a Friday night event, the Sunday afternoon event is the event organizers settled on and is the only one moving forward. In closing, please know that I am confident that the organizers and our other residents will conduct themselves in a safe and respectful manner, and show how Melrose is truly one community open to all.
Thank you for listening and remember that together, we will get through this.