Let them leave

In response to Jeffrey J. Grandahl’s petty farewell letter to Connecticut [Nov. 26, Letters, “Leaving the state”], in which he wishes me and my neighbors a spiteful “good luck” with his prediction of our state’s demise, I would like to respond in kind with a sarcastic good luck and good riddance of my own.

Sadly, Connecticut is a reflection of the national divide between those who believe all Americans deserve a share in the American dream and those who would rather cling to their own privilege while turning a cold shoulder to fellow citizens in need.

May I suggest a new motto for the dawning era of renewal in our great state: “Connecticut: Love it or leave it.”

Our center cities are the original source of all prosperity in Connecticut. If it weren’t for Hartford, once said to be the richest city in the country, what would your town of Simsbury be today? What would your “considerable assets” be today?

Thank you for leaving and making extra room for some bigger hearts in our small state. On your way out, please acknowledge that it is your privilege to be free to leave, when so many of our most struggling neighbors can only dream of that kind of economic freedom.

Chris Vater, Hartford