Hamden Democratic Primary: Richard Mutts Seeks Nomination

Hamden CT

13 September, 2021

4:49 PM

Description

HAMDEN, CT — Registered Democrats in Hamden will head to the polls on Tuesday, Sept. 14, for a primary election that features a three-way race for mayor with positions on the Legislative Council and Board of Education up for grabs. Patch asked the candidates to answer questions about their campaigns ahead of the primary. Richard Mutts, 40, is challenging for a spot on the Legislative Council as an At-Large candidate. Occupation: Program Coordinator - Wesleyan University's Office of Equity and Inclusion Experience: N/A Family in government: N/A The single biggest issue in town is ______, and I plan to do this about it: In my opinion, the most pressing issues facing our town is diversity of thought and inclusivity. Often overlooked, each contributes to the root cause of disconnection. As we promote these concepts, it provides an understanding that each person brings their own unique identity, culture and personal experiences to the table. When we are inclusive, it opens doors for people to want to help and bring ideas and /or challenges to the forefront so we can tackle them as a collective group. My action plans include: Education and Empowerment – Provide residents with knowledge, skills, confidence and understanding of the town's infrastructure. Collaboration – Working closely with families, schools and other agencies to formulate solution-based strategies and actions to advance our town's mission. Diversity, Equity and Inclusion - Create equitable opportunities for a diverse variety of residents to co collaborate with an understanding that different cultures, gifts, and and perspectives are all valued. Critical differences between me and my opponents: An understanding to the importance of developing my personal emotional intelligence is what separates me from other candidates. In my opinion, the characteristics of self awareness, self management, social awareness, and empathy and relationship management signify true leadership. Having the ability to look within to understand what is being projected outward is key! The essential difference between emotion and reason is that emotion leads to action while reason leads to conclusions and results! Accomplishments: My highest accomplishments do not always come in the form of accolades or titles that I have earned thus far. The creation of the Born Rich Foundation was instrumental to my understanding of community development. I wanted to give back to Hamden in a way that would have lasting and sustainable impact. Creating a non profit that dedicates free services, programs and support systems for all ages, was my way of leaving a legacy. We are excited to allow community members access to valuable information that can change family trajectory for generations to come. Working to improve, address, and inspire more equitable communities by connecting people to opportunities, and has provided me with great learning moments. Other issues: Successful reform takes four critical elements: Commitment, Clarity, Capacity, and Structure. As communities throughout Hamden constantly change, we as leaders must be willing to evolve our thoughts, actions and be willing build a lasting commitment to these changes The system is not broken, it is operating exactly the way it was designed. Unless we work to change the structures and the systems, and we will only be putting in policies that we can't enforce and can't implement them. What else would you like voters to know about you? I've had life-long passion and tenacity to serve others and provide community service. My core values are SERVING, HELPING and GIVING. As a member of office, it will allow me to empower, inspire, and encourage others that they too can become agents of positive change throughout Hamden. I chose to be a learn-it-all, and as opposed to a know-it-all!