Opinion
New Britain Progressive Opinion Page
On this page, you will find Op-Ed pieces, news analysis and other opinion in which the authors seek to inform on topics of interest to the New Britain community. If you would like to send commentary for consideration, please email it to [email protected].
Honoring the Great Harriet S Geragosian – Steadfast, Caring, Progressive Leader
By Tim O’Brien I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of the great Harriet S Geragosian. I am saddened for her wonderful family, and I extend my heartfelt sympathy to her son, State Auditor and former state Rep John Geragosian, his wife, Audrey, daughter Molly and all of the members of their family. […]
Celebrating the Asian American and Pacific Islander Festival at CCSU
By Candyce Scott Remarks during the Asian American and Pacific Islander Festival at CCSU on April 30, 2025. I am so excited to be here because I am an alumni of CCSU. This is my home, and my responsibility to be here. I am so proud of my school during these turbulent, troubling times. I […]
Dare to Struggle CT Letter to the Editor: 3/10 “Rally Against Shelter Abuse”
By Dare to Struggle CT To the editor, The Rally Against Shelter Abuse, which took place in front of one of New Britain’s homeless services centers/shelters on 61 Arch Street March 10th, was characterized by mass participation from the Arch Street neighborhood, threats of retaliation from the Friendship Center, and the directors not responding to […]
Op-Ed: A National Mesothelioma Registry Could Combat Misdiagnosis and Improve Health Outcomes of New Britain Veterans
By Jonathan Sharp Veterans in Connecticut—particularly in New Britain—face a public health crisis that has been overlooked for far too long. Asbestos exposure, which many endured while serving at contaminated military bases, has left them vulnerable to mesothelioma, a devastating and often misdiagnosed cancer. Making this more tragic is that several veterans discover their condition […]
Remote Work Rollbacks Highlight Need to Fight for a Shorter Workweek for All Workers and Families
Whether or not you work at a job that is possible to do remotely, acts increasingly being perpetrated by the greedy who own for a living to roll back the ability of workers who can work remotely to do so show in crystal clear terms that rich people think they own the rest of humanity. […]
HB 6338 If Approved Will Undermine Tenant Protection
By Aram Ayalon As the Connecticut legislator is making a concerted effort in the 2025 session to address homelessness and shortage of affordable housing, one legislation proposal could undermine this effort. The housing committee of the Connecticut legislator is considering HB 6338 that would allow landlords to request the police to evict individuals whom the […]
Mayor Stewart Goes All In With MAGA In Bid For Statewide Office
By John McNamara Mayor Erin Stewart’s second bid for statewide office formally began on January 28th at an announcement about her exploratory committee. Standing outside her City Hall office with a throng of municipal employees and supporters looking on, the six-term Republican mayor said she needs to raise $350,000 this year to viably contend for […]
A Call for Hope, Pride and Activism from Ald Scott at Black History Month Flag Raising
By Ald Candyce Scott, speaking at the raising of the Pan African flag in front of New Britain City Hall in honor of Black History Month. I know today many people are feeling sad, confused, angry, and scared. Even though we are going through some horribly scary, frightening times, we have to remain positive and […]
Martin Luther King and the Economic and Social Bill of Rights
By Tim O’Brien Editor’s note: The following commentary is a republication of an article originally published personally by the author in 2014. This weekend, our nation, state and communities celebrate and remember the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and his accomplishments. It is a time when I have always felt inspired by his work, […]
Residents Organizing “Saving Our Neighborhood” Event on the Allen Street Project
Dear Neighbors and Ward Four Residents, My name is Carol Austad, and my husband, Robert Swarr and I, are long-time residents of New Britain. We care deeply about the well-being of our neighborhood. I am also a member of the Democratic Town Committee (DTC), and my goal is to address concerns and serve everyone in […]