Lewiston Mayor Robert Macdonald’s most recent display of unprofessional, disrespectful and divisive commentary in the BBC documentary and local media toward members of the Somali community constitutes a profound disservice to every citizen of the city of Lewiston.

Components of character, such as accountability, conscientiousness, empathy, fairness, respect and responsibility, all seem to be missing from Macdonald’s actions as mayor.

The community should not continue to tolerate such bigotry and irresponsible behavior from any public servant, much less the mayor, whose goal should be to constructively represent the city and all citizens of Lewiston.

His suggestion that immigrants leave their culture to join ours is reprehensible and irresponsible, and demonstrates a profound lack of judgment and sensitivity.

Mayor Macdonald, a public servant, has succeeded again in unfair, unjust criticism of an amazingly resilient people who have enriched their community.

Why must the public continue to endure bigotry and injustice to the city and its citizens?

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once stated, Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” Macdonald’s comments are indeed such a threat. He has demonstrated a lack of character and ethical behavior, as well as a general unfitness for public service.

We add our support to the rising call for his resignation from office.

Joyce T. Gibson, Lewiston

Jan Phillips, Lewiston

Betty D. Robinson, Auburn

and two others