Are you facing a problem? Need help? Being discriminated against? Fighting "the system?"
Some time ago I joined with others suggesting that a process be created for citizens who need advice or assistance with government or other interactions. Let's admit it − at one time or another we find we're alone, not knowing where to turn.
After a lot of discussions and collaboration, efforts are coming together to establish a non-political, non-government, not-for-profit citizen ombudsman for our community. Its purpose is to empower and support those who challenge what they consider to be injustice, whether in government, business, or in other ways.
It may be that they question an unfair government policy that hurts them or their friends. They might have been fired unjustly, unfairly evicted, or been discriminated against. Perhaps they challenge what they consider to be an unjust law or rule. They might be a whistleblower about something they feel is wrong.
A group is now formed that is ready to hear from citizens who need help or advice. Their plan is that an ombudsman will be available to serve as an intermediary to help mediate or arbitrate solutions that seek justice.
That may include providing no-cost legal representation, or providing support from volunteer professionals such as doctors, accountants, economists, and other persons relevant to unique situations. And when necessary to assist with funding to support their efforts and needs, as well as networking on mutual causes.
An ombudsman investigates and helps to settle complaints, and serves as an advocate on behalf of people seeking fairness. In a way, an ombudsman is a truth-seeker who stands with people looking for justice but who individually have limited resources of their own. This is citizen-to-citizen help, designed to be a force for good.
Results may not be immediate, and no promises are made. But someone will listen, and offer advice − including professional assistance when possible. With no cost of any kind.
People who speak up against injustice or improper behavior in government, courts, business, even religious or financial institutions face strong economic and political forces. Those forces do whatever it takes to maintain their power. The concept of an ombudsman offers balance and protection.
This effort is called the Portsmouth Friz John Porter Project. Its Mission Statement: "In this time of contentious political turmoil and mean-spirited never-ending litigation, we hope to bring a new means of collaborative dispute resolution in the spirit of our local hero, General Fitz John Porter."
Porter was a Portsmouth native whose statue of him riding his horse is in our South End's Haven Park, off Pleasant Street. He's one of our less known heroes from the 1800s, but books and documentaries report his courage and the importance of his life fighting government corruption and institutional red tape. He took on the powers-who-were in his day to seek justice. After years of determined effort, he won. Our library has several books about his life. The concept of the Portsmouth Fitz John Porter Project is similar to the recently created state government ombudsman allowing citizens who report violations of the New Hampshire Right-to-Know Law to seek remedy. In that case, citizens can contact the N.H. Office of Secretary of State at 603-271-3242.
Portsmouth Ombudsman website: Go to fitzjohnporter.com to learn more, or to ask for help or advice by filling out an on-line form. You'll see a video by the National Park Service about General Porter, including information about how an ombudsman can help you.
Today's quotes: "At the Fitz John Porter Project, we are dedicated to promoting alternative non-judicial means for ordinary individuals to obtain justice in the community." − from the organization's website.
"This concept is a great example of community involvement and advocacy with direct benefit to our citizens." - former Mayor Bob Lister Next time: Rye Harbor advocates are right to be concerned.
Variously since 1969, Jim Splaine has been New Hampshire state senator for six years, representative for 24 years, Police Commission and School Board member, Portsmouth assistant mayor for 12 years and city councilor for 18 years. He can be reached at jimsplaineportsmouthnh@gmail.com
This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Splaine: The Portsmouth Fair Justice Ombudsman
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