Dear Cape Cod Community,

We are asking you take action in response a recent and deeply troubling incident that demands our immediate attention and collective response. The assault on Millyan Phillips by John Shea, the owner of Trader Ed's, has shocked and saddened us all, exposing the ongoing oppression and violence that persist in our society. You can learn more about the assault here.

It is vital to recognize that this incident is not an isolated act, but rather a stark reflection of a broader culture dominated by white supremacy and systemic inequalities. Such hate crimes serve as painful reminders of the power imbalances that perpetuate harm, particularly among marginalized communities, deepening divisions and perpetuating injustice.

In the face of this deeply ingrained hatred and injustice, we have a shared responsibility to stand together and demand action. We demand the Cape & Islands District Attorney's Office to treat this incident as a hate crime and conduct a thorough investigation, holding the perpetrator accountable. It is crucial that we acknowledge and dismantle the systems that enable and perpetuate such acts of violence and discrimination. Only by addressing the root causes of white supremacy and systemic inequalities can we foster a community that is genuinely equitable, inclusive, and safe for all.

Today, we urge you to take action and send a resolute message that hate and bigotry have no place in our community. We firmly believe that a just and inclusive society can only be built on the foundations of accountability, empathy, and unity. Therefore, we invite you to join us in a collective campaign of letter writing, advocating not only for justice in the case of Millyan Phillips but also for comprehensive measures to combat hate crimes within our community.

Love & Solidarity,
Cape Cod DSA