A Message from Mayor Stewart: This Thanksgiving, I am thankful for our community. Our family.
Thanksgiving 2020
2020 has been a year. Together, we have faced many challenges, and continue to combat a virus that impacts the members of our community who are most in need. We know that while there is hope of a vaccine, we still have many months ahead and a long recovery.
In our darkest moments, we may be questioning and asking what there is to be thankful for.
But then we remember and express gratitude for:
- The members of the community who provide food, housing, medical care to those in need.
- The reuniting of families after a long battle with the virus.
- Our frontline workers who continue to provide medical care, pickup our trash and recycling, serve us in restaurants and stores, drive buses and metro, and so many more to keep us going.
- Each other. For the small acts of kindness from raking a neighbor’s leaves to planting a few extra flowers, or dropping off groceries to the kind word when needed the most.
These are the things that allow us to continue on. If you need help, reach out. If you see a neighbor who is struggling, reach out. Be mindful of your own wellbeing, including your mental health and the mental health of those around you. The City is here as a resource for all.
The City staff continues to keep the COVID-19 website page updated. Please use it and let us know if you can’t find something you need.
For the members of our community with family and friends in Ethiopia, we are here for you and pray for peace.
During the holidays, I spend time thinking of the Thanksgivings I had as a child. My grandfather always reminded us of the importance of family, helping one another, and being there for each other.
Takoma Park is a family. Our residents, staff, businesses – we are family. We are there for each other and we will continue to be there for each other.
On this Thanksgiving, I am thankful for our community. Our family.
I also wanted to share the picture above with all of you as a reminder of our family. I commissioned Chris Ha, a young graphic designer in Takoma Park, to design this art piece, and for me, it is a reminder of what we have to be thankful for this season.
With thanks,
Mayor Kate
