To the editor:

The New Ulm Human Rights Commission would like to clarify the recent letter to the editor and questions raised by a concerned citizen.

The HRC co-sponsored a sex trafficking presentation with the NUPD. The presenter interjected opinions contrary to the mission of the HRC. The letter was written to clarify where the HRC’s support, both legal and otherwise, lies in regards to LGBTQ individuals. To restate what the speaker said, which was unexpected and not condoned by the HRC, and to give more print time to harmful statements is unnecessary. The letter was directed at those in attendance who know what was said, specifically those hurt by it.

There is nothing controversial about the letter writing and signing process. Letters are primarily signed in two ways. If a letter needs to be written without a full HRC vote, a PR committee will write the letter and sign only their names on behalf of the commission so letters can be printed in a timely manner. If a scheduled meeting is timely, a vote will take place and all members voting in favor will sign individually. Regarding this last letter, the vote was unanimous and all those voting signed. There is no controversy.

Members of the public are encouraged to attend our monthly meetings and not rely on second hand accounts and interpretations from individuals not in attendance printed in these letters.

Signed,

NUHRC PR Committee

Wendi Ringhofer

Casey McMullen

Aaron Kosola