Farley Santos

I am back home in Danbury after spending a some special days with my family in Sobralia, Minas Gerais, deep in the Brazilian countryside where my family has lived for generations.

I should be leading with a joyous back-to-school message. Instead, am writing again about ICE's aggressive raids in Danbury, causing fear and disruption in our community.

There are some things that are simply bigger than politics.

My heart is with Pastor Mark Lounsbury and the entire Lighthouse Ministries family after this devastating collapse. I’ve reached out and offered any help I can provide.

United Way of Coastal and Western Connecticut and Ashwood Valley Apartments have partnered to establish the Ashwood Valley Fire Response Fund to support residents impacted by the July 23 fire.

I have been receiving updates on the fire at Ashwood Valley condominiums in the 109th that has displaced 80 residents. I have been in touch with the Mayor, who remains in constant communication with emergency services and the Red Cross as they coordinate assistance for those affected.

On Wednesday, I joined Mayor Roberto Alves and our community to welcome home Danbury resident, Bridgeport Police Officer, local volunteer firefighter, and former Danbury Police Cadet Cooper Whiteside. Before the procession, I had the opportunity to meet and speak with Cooper's mother. As someone who knows the unimaginable pain of losing a child, my heart broke for her and for everyone who loved Cooper. No parent should ever have to endure that kind of loss.

Just 1,337 words changed the course of a nation and its people.