Reply to So what do we think about the New Yorker article with the Cheverly moms?

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[quote=Anonymous]Mayor Munyeneh's response:

"I responded to the New Yorker article that includes a depiction of Cheverly and addressed what I believe to be a miscategorization of the town. As you all know, I believe in transparency so my words are below:
Dear Ms. Green,
I am writing to address the recent article in The New Yorker that mischaracterized Cheverly, Maryland. While I appreciate the focus on our town, the depiction failed to reflect the full essence of our community—a vibrant, inclusive, and dynamic town that thrives on mutual respect, generational learning, and a shared commitment to equity.
Cheverly is a majority-Black community located in Prince George’s County, the most affluent Black county in the United States for multiple years. Our town is not only diverse but also highly accomplished, with one of the highest concentrations of terminal degrees in the county. We are a community of professionals, educators, advocates, and innovators who have built a legacy of excellence and inclusivity.
When I refer to Cheverly as progressive, it is not in reference to a political party. Our municipal leadership is non-partisan, and we are committed to serving every resident, regardless of political affiliation or background. In Cheverly, progressivism is about fostering a community that prioritizes equity, fairness, and opportunity for all.
The portrayal of families in your article also misses the mark. Our families are not limited to the stereotypical composition of men, women, children, and one dog. The depth and breadth of the families in Cheverly encompass a wide variety of structures, reflecting the diverse, multigenerational, and dynamic nature of our town. Every family adds richness to the fabric of our community.
We take pride in supporting residents of all ages and needs. Town organizations help our seniors age in place, ensuring they remain, integral members of the community, they helped build. Families with multiple children benefit from resources like the Child Parent Resource Center and volunteer babysitting groups, where neighbors support each other, creating a strong sense of unity.
And yes, even in a town as inclusive as ours, we provide support for people whose beliefs may differ from the majority. True diversity and equity include everyone, even those who hold opposing viewpoints. Cheverly is a remarkable town where everyone is valued and cared for, regardless of their stance or perspective.
Contrary to any assumptions, Cheverly is the furthest thing from a "trad wife" town. We are not even a derivative of it. While I personally enjoy following figures like Nora Smith and Hannah Neeleman for entertainment purposes, Cheverly’s spirit is far from being one-dimensional or conforming to any specific stereotype. We have passed resolutions expanding voting rights to include 16-year-olds and non-citizens, honoring Indigenous lives, and celebrating the contributions of Black people, Hispanic individuals, and the LGBTQ+ population annually without fail. These resolutions exemplify our steadfast commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion.
While we have seen an influx of conservatives from Capitol Hill, we remain a town that embraces diversity of thought and learns to love one another despite our differences. This spirit of unity is reflected in our ability to collaborate, celebrate our differences, and find strength in what brings us together.
As Cheverly prepares to embark on the transformative Hospital Hill development, which will nearly double our population, we look forward to growing together while maintaining the values that define us. We treat one another as we wish to be treated—a principle rooted in the golden rule and reflective of shared values that emphasize kindness, community, and respect.
On a personal note, I will be hosting a Thanksgiving dinner this year for town residents who don’t have family nearby or won’t be traveling. You are welcome to join us, as it may give you deeper insight into who we truly are—a community that celebrates unity, progress, and mutual care.
Cheverly is not merely a town with a storied past—it is a thriving, forward-thinking community driven by the leadership of minorities in a county known for its excellence. I invite you to revisit our town to witness firsthand the progress, diversity, and remarkable spirit that make Cheverly so unique.
Sincerely,
Kayce Simmons Munyeneh 
She/her/hers
Mayor, Town of Cheverly 
Immediate Past President, MML Black Caucus
Board, Prince George's County Municipal Association
Board, Maryland Information Network (211)"[/quote]

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