How to be a good citizen in divisive times
Re: “Independence requires more than agreement,” July 3 guest commentary
In his opinion column, Michael Mastous implores us to try to understand those whose opinions about the proper role of government and other policy matters differ from ours, instead of demonizing them. To be sure, a healthy democracy needs those differences of opinion among its citizens.
By 1964, it was scientifically evident that smoking posed a serious health risk, and the government mandated a warning to be placed on tobacco products. While there may have been debate about the warning, the fact about the risk was accepted by the government.
The same can be said about school district requirements for student vaccinations. They are based on the accepted fact that vaccines promote individual (for most people) and community health. A serious threat to our democracy occurs when the public and our government disagree, not on policy, which is healthy, but on the scientific facts that should guide that policy. And although we certainly should try to understand those who have opinions about policy that differ from ours, we can only condemn those whose differing policy choices are based on ignorance or denial of the facts.
David Wolf, Lakewood
Forget about posting the 10 Commandments in classrooms and making the Bible required reading. Michael Mastous’ opinion column should be posted in classrooms and public buildings and be required reading before renewing your driver’s license. He perfectly summarized what it means to be a good citizen and how to have a functioning government. Thank you.
Nancy Litwack-Strong, Lakewood
The Smithsonian is not the divisive entity in the U.S.
Re: “White House criticizes Smithsonian in report,” July 6 news story
And every day the paperboy brings more. The White House criticized the Smithsonian, claiming it has become “a political instrument to divide, dispirit and discourage our citizens.”
Someone in the White House must have been looking in the mirror when that was being written.
To laugh or to cry?
Craig Marshall Smith, Highlands Ranch
America 250 missed the mark … here’s to 275
Freedom 250 … what a joke … what a sad, sad joke … a tragedy, really. But, oh, how appropriate. I hope I live to see the 275th so the actual builders of this country, you know, the immigrants, are a little bit redeemed before I take my dirt nap.
Scott Stoddard, Aurora
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