Local forum hosts Democrats running for lt. gov.

The Addison County Democratic Committee will host a “Meet the Candidates” event on Feb. 18 in Middlebury.

Esther Charlestin, the former Democratic nominee for governor of Vermont and onetime member of the Middlebury selectboard, launched a bid for the state’s second-highest office on Wednesday.

Gov. Phil Scott, the incumbent Republican, will face Democratic challenger Esther Charlestin, an educator and former selectboard member from Middlebury, in Vermont’s general election this November.

As I introduce myself as Esther Charlestin, a candidate for your next governor, I am met with skepticism. “Who do you think you are?” “Where did you come from?” “Why are you here?” 

Esther Charlestin a few years ago got a taste of public service as a member of the Middlebury selectboard. Now she’s seeking to dramatically expand her network of constituents — as governor of the state of Vermont.

Former Middlebury selectboard member Esther Charlestin will announce her run for Vermont governor on Friday at the Statehouse.

As co-facilitators of Addison County BIPOC+, we are writing in support of Esther Charlestin, Justice Elijah, and the crucial work they are doing to advance equity and dismantle oppression in our schools and communities. 

Greg Akinbiyi had a simple, heartfelt message for Addison Central School Board members at their Sept. 25 meeting. “I am scared to send my son to school,” said Akinbiyi, who is Black and who recently moved to Middlebury with his 19-month-old child. 

I must candidly convey that the mention of my name within the article did not feel like appreciation. Instead, it felt more like an attempt to dismiss Esther Charlestin’s experiences, conveyed through a tone reminiscent of, “I have a Black friend, and loo … (read more)

When I heard, a year and a half ago, that Esther Charlestin was going to be the Dean of Climate and Culture at Middlebury Union Middle School, I was thrilled.

Ms. Esther Charlestin was hired to do and took on arguably the most unpopular position in any school, a charge she attempted to fill with grace and honesty.

I was sad but not a bit surprised to learn of the overt racism Esther Charlestin experienced during her year as Dean of Culture and Climate at Middlebury Union Middle School. 

Esther Charlestin was incredibly helpful to us last year in helping our son (and us) adjust to Middle School and creating a 504 plan. I know it wasn’t always easy! As a family, we are deeply saddened by the experience that she had, but not surprised. 

I am writing in support of Esther Charlestin, the previous Dean of Climate & Culture at Middlebury Union Middle School. I am asking our community to hear the truth about racism in Vermont and acknowledge her concerns about lack of support. 

The Addison Central School District has announced new and ongoing efforts to battle racism and intolerance in wake of the recent resignation of Middlebury Union Middle School Dean of Climate & Culture Esther Charlestin, who cited two racially-charged inci … (read more)