[Massachusetts-NFB] Clarification and concern regarding recent miscommunication

[adam.roberge93 at gmail.com]

Hi Sherley,
I am sorry someone overreacted the way they did with saying things like that.
Over the last years I have continued building repour at meetings and you are someone who does rite by people and at least you tried with this individual.
Adam


-----Original Message-----
From: Massachusetts-NFB <massachusetts-nfb-bounces at nfbnet.org> On Behalf Of Shirley via Massachusetts-NFB
Sent: Saturday, July 26, 2025 3:44 PM
To: NFB of Massachusetts E-mail List <massachusetts-nfb at nfbnet.org>
Cc: ladyshirl519 at gmail.com
Subject: [Massachusetts-NFB] Clarification and concern regarding recent miscommunication



Dear NFB of Massachusetts Leadership,

I hope this message finds you well. I’m reaching out today with a heavy heart to address a troubling situation that occurred following a conversation I had earlier this morning with a member of my local chapter.

During that conversation, the individual expressed concerns about a perceived lack of unity and collaboration within our affiliate. I did my best to respond thoughtfully and constructively, offering support and guidance as a fellow member and chapter president. At no point did I intend to speak disrespectfully or to cause further division. Unfortunately, it has come to my attention—via a message from our affiliate president—that my words were taken out of context and used in a way that reignited conflict and created additional upset.

As many of you may be aware, the affiliate president and I have faced some challenges in our relationship over the past few months. This has weighed heavily on me, and I recently sent her a sincere apology in hopes of mending our connection and moving forward positively. She kindly responded with an apology of her own, and I was encouraged by what I believed was a mutual effort to begin again with respect and collaboration.

This most recent situation is incredibly upsetting, not only because my words were misrepresented, but because I strive to be a positive, upbeat presence in our organization. I do not seek out or tolerate drama in my life, and I deeply value peace, honesty, and mutual support. I make every effort to serve our members with integrity, to listen with compassion, and to offer the best advice I can in any given moment.

I have attempted to reach out to our affiliate president directly to address this matter and stand up for the truth, but so far have not been able to connect. I believe honest, open communication is essential to resolving misunderstandings, and I remain hopeful that such a conversation can still happen.

I love this organization and the work we do. But being used as a tool for conflict—especially when I have worked hard to repair relationships and promote unity—is something I cannot quietly accept.

Thank you for taking the time to read this. I’m sharing this not to point fingers, but to advocate for myself, my character, and the intentions with which I serve.

With sincerity and hope,
Shirley Dorris
President, Cambridge Chapter
National Federation of the Blind of Massachusetts  

615-598-5020-Cell
617-819-4632-NFB/MA

“Walk by faith not by sight”COR 5;7
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