Dear Mr. Siblani:

I am proud that so many truly cared about a simple judicial election that the process provoked such passion in our community. It speaks volumes about Dearborn. But, we need to work together and celebrate our accomplishments, not our differences. And sometimes we have to agree to disagree

Words cannot adequately describe how honored I am to have had the endorsement and support of Sir Michael Berry and others during my recent judicial campaign. Sir Michael has unselfishly devoted himself to the betterment of our community throughout his long and illustrious career. He has helped to provide jobs and education to so many, asking for nothing in return.

If there is a silver lining in the cloud of coming within 0.67 percent of victory, it is that this election gave me the privilege of working with Sir Michael and Cindy Berry, for each of whom I have the highest respect.

As president of the Arab American Political Action Committee (AAPAC), I know that you would not suggest that the recommendation of that group is the only choice. But, to assail those who publicly disagree with the organization — that is unfair. The statements urging the community to “make an independent choice” were not an attack on the organization, but on the choice and the method.

As to the characterization of a “win” for AAPAC in the recent judicial election, I respectfully disagree. Each candidate won an equal number of precincts overall. Where the endorsement slate was circulated — I carried the majority of precincts in east Dearborn (14 of 19), winning the largest at McDonald School by a 5% margin. I doubt that any of us could have predicted how the votes ultimately fell out, but they do demonstrate a strong independent streak typical of our community.

The beauty of our democracy is that we allow differences of opinions, and newspapers are the bastion of a free society.

With this historic election behind us, may we please now move forward for the betterment of our community?

Sincerely,

Candyce Ewing Abbatt

November 11, 2008