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Dear Isadora,

When I was made aware of your post I was deeply saddened. As you a know when we spoke by phone Wednesday regarding the mailer, I was completely unaware of it, and had neither seen nor approved the use of Billie’s picture. This was sent out by another organization I am not affiliated with, and I would assume they had no knowledge of the pictures history nor of Billie’s passing. I did not supply it and had no knowledge of its use.

Billie and I served together and I have had nothing but the utmost respect for him as I have always had for you as well. I have fond memories of his warm laugh and smile, and cherish our friendship.

I am deeply sorry for any pain you or your family have experienced. It was one of my greatest joys to have advocated for the building to be named in Billie’s honor, and I will never forget that day to stand together with my friend. He made a deep and great impact upon me and for our city, and it was my honor to call him friend. I would never have sullied that image for any political reason. His memory is too precious to me.

I have nothing but the deepest admiration for both he and you. I can understand why this would hurt, and it grieves my heart that yours is grieved.

Most sincerely,

Commissioner Bankson