Most mornings I look forward to reading MassterList. I've viewed the publication as a State House News Service-lite when paired with what was formerly the Politico Massachusetts Playbook (rip). I was surprised and disappointed this morning, though, when I read the headline article 'Mayor Wu's Biker Backlash' written by Jon Keller. Not only is this not news, but it disrespects the Massachusetts cycling community and all the people who want to make their cities safer places to live. Keller is patronizing and, frankly, unprofessional in his scolding of cyclists and reformers who seek to hold decision-makers and those who hold power accountable to their duties as elected leaders.
Despite what the author opines, budgets are moral documents. Resources are limited, wants and needs unlimited. The choices made by the City to pay school teachers, build public infrastructure (like community centers), and invest in programs that uplift the arts demonstrate what the City, and its residents, care about. When the priorities of the City do not reflect the needs of it's residents, they speak up. At budget hearings, at the polls, and in the streets.
Just the same, a publication's choice to run certain articles reflects its morals and points of view. MassterList's decision to publish Keller's article illustrates a lapse in the publication's integrity and a prioritization of vitriolic opinion writing over the news.
As I can with my vote and voice, I will take my eyes elsewhere. To other publications that respect members of the cycling community and take seriously the concerns of residents of the Commonwealth.
Brandon Stanaway is an Allston-Brighton resident.
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