Bridgeport, CT — Today, Bridgeport City Council leadership announced their strong condemnation of the derogatory comments made by Councilwoman Maria Pereira towards the Muslim community, city constituents, the Chief of Police and police officers, and other city staff. Such language is not only offensive, but also undermines the principles of professionalism and respect that our community expects from its elected representatives. 

In light of Councilwoman Pereira's recent actions, City Council leadership calls for Councilwoman Pereira’s immediate resignation. It is imperative that our elected officials uphold the highest standards of conduct, treating all members of our community and our sworn law enforcement officers with the dignity and respect they deserve.

Councilwoman Pereira’s email yesterday included references to Muslim members of our community who attended the Council meeting as a “mob” and “thugs.” She even referred to one of the constituents who attended the City Council meeting as a “possible Hamas terrorist.” This kind of racial profiling and derogatory comments towards a specific racial group has no place in our politics and civil discourse. 

Councilwoman Periera further admitted that she stuck up the middle finger at constituents from her chair in the Council chamber. This public display of disrespect is totally unacceptable behavior. Ultimately, at a meeting in which the City Council was trying to bring unity and peace, Councilwoman Pereira’s comments undermined our common purpose and created a divisive atmosphere.

Councilwoman Pereira also referred to the Chief of Police as “Porter the Pig” and his officers as "piglets." Such inflammatory language not only disrespects the dedicated men and women who serve our community, but also puts their safety at risk. The use of derogatory terms like these is unacceptable and goes against the values of unity and collaboration that our city stands for.

Councilwoman Pereira's comments not only lacked the empathy that is expected from public officials but also demonstrated a disregard for the lives of those who selflessly protect our community. Elected representatives should lead by example, promoting civil discourse and respectful engagement, rather than resorting to offensive language that further divides our community.

Council President Aidee Nieves states, "We condemn any language that fosters division and puts the lives of our dedicated public servants at risk. Councilwoman Pereira's comments are not representative of the values we hold dear, and we call on her to resign from her position immediately."

If City Councilwoman Pereira does not resign by the next City Council meeting, Council leadership will be introducing a resolution to censure and reprimand her, and will be taking action to remove her from all of her committee assignments.