To the editor:

Living on an island, physical boundaries can make close neighbors feel like family. It can also draw distinct lines between what is “ours” and “yours.” Like many communities, we are faced with a fundamental question: Will we pull up the drawbridge, or will we commit to share?

The fight to save 550 Madison draws this issue close. There are a handful of days ahead where we as an island can push for the protection of our neighbors. Thirteen families have had their lives turned upside down with the news that their homes will now be sold to the highest bidders. My mother was one to mutter, “There but for the grace of God…” and it is a phrase that comes to mind today.

Living on our island, we cannot escape the history of those who stood in defense of neighbors. Of course, this is not internment, but these are neighbors threatened with imminent displacement. Will we heed the call of those before us like Walt Woodward who stood up for his neighbors or will we brush aside our history and become an uncaring island, only worried about the next high bidder for our precious resources?

We “Stand for the Land” on this island, but will we stand for the people? Can we not do both? Stand with me and ask the Housing Kitsap board to take the generous offer from HRB so that our neighbors can be assured of not only a home, but that this island cares for them.

LAURA McMULLAN

Bainbridge Island