Letters

Born and raised in Southampton and having served for 24 years as Southampton Town justice, I am honored to be running for reelection as the Southampton Town “justice for all.” I am not a politician, I am a judicial candidate, and I seek the support of all voters. I have not sought the endorsement of any individual or agency. I am asking you to reelect me.

If you would like to volunteer to work on my campaign, host a meet-and-greet or just post a lawn sign, please visit my website or on Facebook at “friendsofbarbarawilson.”

My parents, Adel and Ernie Wilson, worked hard to raise six children and taught me the value of hard and honest work. My parents also taught me to give back to the community.

My father was a gifted auto mechanic and a World War II veteran. He fought at the Battle of the Bulge and landed at Normandy Beach a few days after the invasion. He told me he thought he would never see Southampton again.

My grandmother was a schoolteacher, along with her sister, my namesake, Barbara Keck from Eastport/Speonk. My brothers, sisters, aunts, nieces and nephews and cousins from Speonk to Sag Harbor and all places in between, including the Shinnecock Nation, call Southampton their home. This wonderful place is our home and I care deeply about our community.

I graduated from Southampton High School and continued my studies at Suffolk County Community College earning an associate degree in criminal justice. I then attended Fordham University, earning a double major in Black studies and social sciences. After Fordham, I attended Touro Law School, where I earned several awards in criminal procedure, while working full time.

I served as a Suffolk County assistant district attorney and as a private attorney, donating hundreds of hours of pro bono work. I have volunteered in many different roles: as a Girl Scout leader, with the Boy Scouts, on the boards of McGann Mercy High School and Big Brothers/Big Sisters.

At this critical time in our courts, an experienced judge is your best choice. Bail reform and amended bail reform and COVID-19 protocols including the use of technology have changed the way the courts operate.

During the pandemic, I kept the court open and operating, making sure justice was available for all. My work has not gone unnoticed, as this year my colleagues unanimously elected me as president of the New York State Suffolk County Magistrates Association.

I want to continue to serve our town and provide a fair, honest and safe place where all receive justice with dignity and respect. I am asking you to reelect me as the Southampton Town “justice for all.”

Hon. Barbara Wilson

Southampton