In an unprecedented bid to increase diversity in the small Washington County city of Calais, City Council voted almost unanimously to rename a downtown residential street after an Arabic greeting meaning, “peace be upon you”.
According to Councilor Michael Emery, “we wanted to choose a sentiment that represented peace in these uncertain times in our country.” When asked about the phrase’s distinctly Islamic connotation, Emery said, “There was lengthy discussion about which culture the street’s new name should draw from. We ultimately chose to showcase a frankly under-represented demographic here in Washington County.”
Confusion and anger among residents
The new change has sparked much debate among residents of Calais and neighboring towns.
“I really just don’t get it,” lamented long-time Robbinston resident Bruce Doherty. “They could’ve chosen something that represented all of us. Now you’ve just wiped the name of our first president right off the sign.”
“Really?” said Calais resident Jason Fortier. “This close to 9/11?”
Others are quite happy with the change. Samir bin Awad, who lives on nearby Calais Ave, said about the change: “It’s very good. I like it.”
There has also been some concern among residents that the city may try to re-number all homes within city limits using Arabic numerals.
Emery’s final stance on the rebrand? “There are no plans to reconsider the decision at this time.”
