Letters: Support for Steberger

After living in Ithaca and teaching at Tompkins Cortland Community College for the past four years, I have developed an intense love for this area and the people who make it such a wonderful place to live. My first years in Ithaca were spent living in the apartment directly above Reed Steberger. I believe that Reed Steberger’s perspective, intellect, and genuine interest is exactly what Tompkins County District 4 (The Commons, Collegetown and West Campus) should seek out and value as indispensable in a new county legislator.

Reed possesses a strong dedication to matters affecting marginalized groups and social injustices. In recent months, I have attended several campaign events, intended to get to know residents and conduct political education. During these gatherings, discussions with Reed were always informative and quite honestly, exciting. But what really left an impression on me is the genuine, humble way that Reed conducts the campaign at large, with a real interest in advocating for all persons regardless of sex, race, SES, religion, etc.

Reed is always, very clearly, interested in listening rather than speaking, and in hearing what people have experienced. A deep concern at an individual level, and the ability to engage with people’s lived experiences is essential in a county legislator. I have noticed that the campaign is not simply about championing Reed’s own proficiency in local matters; there is a great interest in learning as well. What Reed is hoping to accomplish and change is an example of certain magnanimity, and how it is being done is what leaves me excited and moved.

Steberger has reached out, canvassed, and communicated with those affected by these injustices and subsequently shared their stories. This type of grassroots approach seems to me the foundation for an active, significant change.
Reed Steberger has surely secured my vote for county legislator of District 4.

John Troyer
Ithaca