Pride

Pride

The New Bedford Police Union is extremely proud of the members who were at the grand reopening of the Zeiterion Theater on Saturday, January 17. Our members stood outside of the theater, quietly holding signs displaying “SUPPORT NBPD FOR A FAIR CONTRACT”. This in no way was meant to be disrespectful to all of the people of the Zeiterion Theater who have worked so hard during its restoration and subsequent grand reopening. We appreciate the Zeiterion Theater, the people behind the scenes who make the theater what it is, and what it means for the City of New Bedford. It is a shining light on our city, a venue that attracts people not just from our fair city, but from all over, and brings them together for a night of music, laughs, and powerful dramatic performances from all corners of the entertainment world. 

For the Union’s part, today was instead meant to be a quiet, yet meaningful, and thought-provoking informative gathering. The Union is now over 560 days without a contract. As you may see from the numbers posted on our billboard message, this has not stopped us from doing the best that we can for the people of New Bedford (184,000 plus calls for service, over 60 illegal firearms seized, etc.). Our intent was never to mar the grand reopening of the theater but instead meant to draw the attention of those waiting in line to go in for the events of the afternoon and evening. It was meant to have them look over and think “Why are they holding signs?”, “We support you”, “We see and hear you”, “Thank you for all you do for our city”. The members who were there this afternoon and this evening relayed that the overall response was very positive. They received smiles, waves of encouragement, horns honking in enthusiastic support. Those outward signs of support show us that we have the support of the people of not only our city, but those of cities and towns around us.

It was a cold winter day, windy, gloomy at times, and wet due to light rain. For those Union members standing outside the weather may have been cold, but their hearts were warmed at the support received by those who at the onset were there for an afternoon/evening of entertainment and were enlightened by the plight of the men and women who have sworn service to them. There was no yelling, no use of foul language, nothing to draw negative attention to those present. Instead, those who waited in line to the afternoon and evening shows saw a glimpse of what the men and women of the New Bedford Police Union are; consummate professionals who are aware that at times their actions can speak louder than words, and those actions spoke loudly today. 

As you drive through the City of New Bedford, be on the lookout as we plan on continuing these quiet, yet impactful, informative gatherings to share our message with all. 

In Unity and Respect,

Officer Lorenzo Gonzalez III

NBPU President