• Originally published May 12, 2010 at 2:46 p.m., updated May 12, 2010 at 2:46 p.m.

As an American given the freedom of choice to make the decisions best for me and my family, I have always been proud to call myself an American, even though I am of Hispanic decent. One of the main reasons I have been grateful to be in America is because of our rights given under the constitution. Sadly, I must admit that on Election Day last Saturday (May 8), I was met face to face with the most threatening gesture and vile conversations, as I wore a tee shirt in support of Joyce Black for Mayor. Mayor Knapik, my employer was stationed at his tent directly across from Ms. Black’s small tent where I and another Black lady were talking as I prepared to pass out Ms. Black’s campaign literature. Mayor Knapik and I looked at each other and he me gave the “Throat cut gesture”... On another occasion that day, Bobby Head approached me, with a lot of harassing, negative conversation about wearing Ms. Black's shirt.

I have been a loyal and faithful employee for the City of Bay City for more than twenty years. I have more than forty (40) Certificates of Appreciation for the work I have done for the City in the Public Works Department.

I have always performed my duties in a timely manner and done what was and is asked of me by the supervisor. Most of us are just employees trying to do the best job we have done for years, but making a threatening gesture on my life crosses the line. I don’t know if he means, he’s going to have my throat cut or he’s going to do it himself, but whatever, the gesture is intended to mean, I will not tolerate it.

The reason I don't live in Cuba, any South American country or Mexico is because I respect the rights of all people and they must respect mine. I have never threatened any one's life and I don't like the idea of anyone threatening mine. I do take all threats very seriously and will act accordingly.

This is the kind of Mayor we have and now he’s gone too far!

I would like to thank Mr. Green and Mr. Bricker (stationed just across from Ms. Black) for not harassing me about who I was supporting.

Gonzalo Ayala,

City Employee of Bay City

Bay City

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