I witnessed the protest that was sponsored by the Maine People’s Alliance for the benefit of the Lewiston Somali community in reference to the comments made by Lewiston Mayor Robert Macdonald. It was very noticeable that the alliance was running the show.

It would behoove the Somalis not to embrace the alliance, or the ACLU organizations, because they never settle the issues, but just add fuel to the fire between the two parties involved.

It also appears that the Somali community leaders are assisting in getting their community all riled up about the same issue. The entire problem could be eliminated if the Somalis replaced their leadership.

As a little boy, back in the 1940s, I remember my parents and relatives talking about how uninvited they felt when they first arrived in Lewiston from Canada, but as the years went by, they worked hard, kept quiet and contributed to many projects that made Lewiston a better place for everyone.

The Somalis have the same opportunity, if they can remain calm, work hard and not take advice from organizations that would rather protest than contribute.

The Somalis should thank the United States and the city of Lewiston for aiding them as they continue to move into this city.

Joseph Roy, Lewiston