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FRAMINGHAM – I am writing to voice my wholehearted support of Margareth Shepard for the Sixth Middlesex State Representative seat. I have known Margareth for six years since meeting her at Democratic Town Committee meetings.

There is a saying that integrity is what you do when no one is watching.  That perfectly sums up my experience with Margareth and how she has worked behind the scenes for Framingham residents for far, far longer than she has been on anybody’s political radar. 

In addition to being honest, hardworking, gracious, sincere, and family oriented, Margareth has served our community for years as a member of BRACE, Saint Tarcisius Church, and the MetroWest Commission on the Status of Women.

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She is a trailblazer for Framingham’s and the Commonwealth’s Brazilian immigrant community, translating her American Dream experience into action for so many others. She founded the Brazilians for Political Education movement that increased voter registration and citizens’ participation in local elections and government.  She was the first Brazilian American woman elected to a City Council seat in the entire country. 

Unsurprisingly, Margareth has many endorsements from organizations that represent the interests of vulnerable populations and caregivers, such as children and students, LGBTQ+ people, women, nurses, teachers, environmentalists, and caregiving professions.

In my position as a former Framingham Public Schools social worker, I witnessed Margareth’s advocacy for additional state funding for Framingham Public Schools.  Her unwavering support of both students and teachers earned her the endorsement of the Massachusetts Teachers Association (MTA).  

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As a parent and mental health professional who knows that out LGBTQ+ young people are at greater risk of depression and suicide, I really appreciate Margareth’s staunch support of LGBTQ+ rights, which earned endorsements from Mass Equality and the Baystate Stonewall Democrats.

Anyone who cares about LGBTQ+ rights and people know they are under attack. We need more allies in the State House who will stand up for our LGBTQ+ children and adults in Framingham and Massachusetts as a whole.

Erica Toochin

Framingham

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By editor

Susan Petroni is the former editor for SOURCE. She is the founder of the former news site, which as of May 1, 2023, is now a self-publishing community bulletin board. The website no longer has a journalist but a webmaster.