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Listen, learn and work to grow as a person

| July 28, 2022 1:00 AM

I read with concern the cover story in the July 22, 2022, issue about local citizens upset over the Pride celebration. It seems Mr. Dean Cannon thought it morally corrupted children to have such celebrations. To Mr. Cannon and his ilk, I find it morally reprehensible that children have to participate in active shooter drills in schools. I find it morally wrong to teach children to shoot innocent animals for sport. I despise big diesel trucks and what they do to our fragile climate. I dislike immensely that women are once again second-class citizens. I'm personally offended by poor grammar in the letters to the editor. I'm enraged when people don't return their shopping carts to the stalls. None of those give me the right to dictate how others peaceably assemble, how they worship, or what they say or write because as Americans, we are protected under the First Amendment. The only person's actions I can control are my own. 

Republicans used to stand for having as little government interference as possible in their lives. Unfortunately, they don't seem to be willing to offer the same to those who believe differently. 

While I am saddened people would be offended by a celebration of love and a fight for equality, it is their right. However, children are not born with the ability to discriminate. It's taught. So, please don't sully the next generation. Instead, listen, learn, and participate in what makes you uncomfortable in order to grow. Admit when you're wrong. Don't hide behind religion or politics. Those are the lessons that children need in order to become decent and productive citizens.

Finally, to the person who has the ridiculous and tone-deaf "Straight Pride" poster in his or her car, please take a few minutes to read how and why Pride celebrations were initiated in the first place so you can check your privilege. 

BECCA PALMER

Sandpoint