By Kolby R. LaMarche

Mayor Emma Mulvaney-Stanak, City Council President Ben Traverse, Progressive Caucus Chair Gene Bergman, and Democratic Caucus Chair Mark Barlow issued a joint statement addressing the rise of divisive and harmful political rhetoric in Burlington. 

The statement, released yesterday, called for a renewed commitment to respectful and constructive dialogue in local political discourse.

The leaders highlighted Burlington’s history of engaging in national and global issues, noting that the city’s vocal advocacy has often inspired positive change across Vermont and beyond. 

They emphasized, too, the importance of the First Amendment, which guarantees free speech and assembly, describing these rights as “foundational to our democracy” and a critical safeguard against authoritarianism. However, they expressed concern that these rights come with a responsibility, one – they say – is being undermined by current “trends” in public discourse.

According to the statement, the shift to digital platforms has contributed to a degradation of engagement standards. The leaders pointed to algorithms that create echo chambers and foster an “us versus them” mentality, leading to an increase, they say, in harmful, hateful, and sometimes threatening messages directed at elected officials, city staff, and community members. 

“These messages have disproportionately targeted individuals with marginalized identities, creating hostile environments for those serving in public office,” the statement read.

Mayor Mulvaney-Stanak stated, “We have a collective responsibility to engage with one another in constructive and respectful ways.” She warned that failure to address divisive rhetoric risks paralyzing local democracy and discouraging community members from seeking elected or appointed roles.

The leaders pledged to use respectful and constructive language in their debates, deliberations, and communications, even in the face of significant political differences. They also committed to discouraging “ad hominem” attacks among their supporters and urged all Burlingtonians to adopt similar standards when engaging with neighbors, elected officials, and city staff. 

The statement extended an invitation to other city councilors and Vermont elected leaders to join the pledge.

A Pew Research Center report this year found that 68% of Americans believe political discourse has become less civil over the past decade, with 45% reporting they avoid political discussions due to fear of harassment. Burlington’s leaders acknowledged that the city is not immune to these trends, despite its progressive reputation.

The statement concluded with a call for unity, urging Burlingtonians to focus on shared goals and substantive issues. “We must counter those who seek to divide us,” the leaders wrote, “by insisting that our public conversation remains focused on the issues that matter most.”

In early September, Burlington Democrats released a statement that condemned the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk . However, the statement also pointed to a post, published by former Progressive New North End (NNE) candidate Lee Morrigan.

An image depicting two figures, one of whom resembles New North End Democratic Councilor Evan Litwin, held at knifepoint by another figure, who may be Lee Morrigan.

Democrats condemned the social media post, saying in a statement “we cannot and will not stand idly by while dangerous rhetoric takes root in our community.” 

The next city council meeting is scheduled for October 6, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. at City Hall. Read the full statement below: