Chairwoman Cupid releases statement condemning incident at Board of Elections meeting

With profound disappointment, I must address a deeply troubling incident that occurred during a recent Cobb County Board of Elections meeting. A shouted comment referencing Hitler by an audience member was not only highly inappropriate and offensive but also wholly unacceptable in any public discourse.

While the First Amendment protects our right to free speech, it does not shield speech that is inciteful, threatening, or defamatory. Even when speech is hateful or deeply offensive, there are limits. The invocation of a figure like Hitler, whose legacy is marked by horrific atrocities, shows a grievous disregard for our fellow citizens, particularly those of the Jewish faith, as well as the values of respect and decency that our community holds dear. Such actions are not just offensive; they undermine the integrity of our discussions and compromise the important work we do on behalf of our residents, businesses, and stakeholders.

We remain committed to upholding the principles of free expression. However, we must also insist on a standard of civility in our public forums. We owe it to ourselves and our community to ensure that public discourse reflects the dignity and respect that every individual deserves.