In Lawrence, with first Latino mayor possible, conflict arises over new job - Massachuesetts

Lawrence Mayor Michael J. Sullivan is calling on two Latino activists to issue a public apology for making what he deemed “racist comments” in a Globe story concerning his proposal to create a city administrator position.

In a letter sent to local media and elected officials, Sullivan said he was “alarmed and appalled” by “divisive quotes” made by Giovanna Negretti, executive director of ¿Oíste?, a statewide nonprofit working to elect Latino political candidates, and former city councilor Carlos Matos. Matos, who is considering a run for mayor, and Negretti had questioned Sullivan’s initiative to create the post before the 2009 mayoral election - just when demographic changes could result in the city electing its first Latino mayor.”*

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