Councilman Bryan Maher’s comments were totally out of line. For him to even suggest that an Asian-themed park would be “less American” than a 7-Eleven is just plain offensive! Is Washington, D.C., un-American for having cherry blossoms — which, keep in mind, were sent to us by Japan before World War II — spread out around the river and national monuments? Were they un-American for maintaining these trees during the war? This is America. We’re taught at a very young age to not ignore the differences of our peers, but to appreciate them. Diversity is a beautiful thing, Mr. Maher. It’s time that you start to recognize this fact. The so-called “Apple-Pie” town of yours is starting to become a pie with a medley of fruits.
Next time, be smarter about your comments. Maybe you should have suggested that the park be themed so that it acknowledges a variety of cultures. But don’t just bash it because it’s too “Asian” for your liking. It’s sad that the few times I check back on my hometown from college, I have to see negative comments like this that corrupt the fond memories I have of West Windsor’s community.
Jeffrey Yu
West Windsor
The writer is a 2012 alumnus of High School South
