Jennifer DeBarros' Letter of Support

This letter is concerning the ongoing battle for justice in our community and around the world. More specifically and locally, it is a misfortune that within our judicial system, there exists such a case where someone, exercising their constitutional right, can be beaten, charged and prosecuted while not breaking any laws. Even more troubling, is that the person being accused is Temistocles Ferriera AKA Tem Blessed.

I have known Tem for over ten years in various capacities and one thing that has remained constant is his character. Tem has been a solid resource in New Bedford for many years and has planted many seeds that will continue to grow for generations. He has always been willing to give, willing to stand and willing to sacrifice for the betterment of others. The amount of time he has invested, talent he has shared, and individuals he has inspired is countless! My children have benefited from the SEEDS Mentoring program that he founded and throughout my employment at Treatment on Demand (1996 - 2002) he dedicated his time and expertise through free performances at AIDS Awareness Day, educational workshops for the Youth Empowerment Program, and general support of the overall mission. There is a long list of endeavors, organizations and movements that Tem has either created or played a major role. Above all, he is a father, a husband, a son, a brother, a friend and has fulfilled multiple other roles.

When I first meet Tem, I immediately observed that he comes from a large, yet close-knit Cape Verdean family with strong values of love, loyalty, and perseverance, all of which Tem embodies. Secondly, with a passion for justice he has demonstrated discipline, accountability and brilliance. Tem is very unique, he is a leader, New Bedford's own and most needed. His character is of peace not of violence. It is imperative that the 3rd District Court and District Attorney's Office no longer waste crucial resources in an already overwhelmed judicial system and drop these unfair and unreal allegations. It is equally imperative that the community of New Bedford reciprocate the support, dedication, and action that Temistocles Ferreira has given. It especially the community organizations that Tem has supported through out the years. Let this be an opportunity to unite and address issues of racial profiling, police brutality and injustice that exists in our community and around the world.

Jennifer DeBarros
New Bedford Native