I was surprised to hear Cameron Jones was removed from the Food Co-op Board without due process and transparency. I have collaborated with Cameron on multiple projects and he sits on my board at the Color of Sound. In every instance he has been a great collaborator, contributor, and always nothing short of professional. Anyone that knows Cameron and is familiar with his military service and family would be very surprised to hear he violated any code of conduct. 

I am a member of the Co-op and voted for Cameron. It is a shame that in a time where anti-democratic values are so rampant, the Board disenfranchised my vote, that of all the other Co-op members who voted for him, and that of the other two Board members of color (by removing him right before they were seated). The Board also weirdly asked the new Board members of color if they too wanted to resign. I voted for Cameron because he represents my point of view and life experience. It does seem relevant that the only Board Member of African descent was removed because he was supporting a trans person. Lots to unpack.

I love the Co-op and I am a regular shopper there. I believe that all of us that love the Co-op and our community here in Port Townsend have a responsibility to speak up and push back when they make mistakes. 

My hope is that this is a great learning opportunity for our community on how to deal with issues of diversity and inclusion.

Let’s fix this together! With gratitude.

Ben Wilson

CEO and Founder

Color of Sound