Letter to the Editor - April 22, 2009

One of the great sources of pride that I have had in my life as an American is the fact that as Americans we respect each others’ point of view and beliefs, even if we disagree. This country has stood for the right of express without fear of reprisal for over 200 years. Unfortunately, this right to disagree with others is quickly becoming a crime.  Let me explain.

The political hate is out of control. Today, if you support a position that is contrary to a “politically correct” point of view, at best you are considered ignorant, but more often you’re considered to be evil in some way. Having lived through the Vietnam War Period, and the civil rights movement, I can honestly say that the vile behavior we see today is far worse than anything that existed in the 1960s and 1970s. 

The whole notion of “Political Correctness” is a farce and is often misused as a way to silence decent. This intolerant behavior is not American. My fear, as a student of history, is that when one group imposes its opinions on others by oppressive means, fascism usually follows. As Rodney King said, “Can’t we all just get along?” 

Freedom of expression is the fundamental right of all Americans, not just the “politically correct” ones.