We cherish freedom of speech in this country

To The Eagle:

With respect for Lily Kolditz and sympathy over the horrors experienced by her family in Europe during the war years, I offer these observations about her recent letter.

My imperfect understanding is that it was fascism, not socialism, that laid waste to Europe.

One can hardly describe Americans as ‘remaining silent’ as they continue to demonstrate in the streets over the issue threatening America which is not socialism, but rather persistent racism and police brutality.

Those ‘lying’ news outlets, politicians re-election campaigns, socialists, Antifa, BLM, Marxists and even Fox News are allowed to “openly peddle their propaganda” because we cherish freedom of speech and assembly in this wonderful country. The very exercise of those freedoms honor the “sacrifices and tears” suffered in their defense.

Where Ms. Kolditz sees ‘an immoral communistic attack upon law enforcement,' I see police departments being forced to deal with the racists and violent bullies they have tolerated within their unions for too many years. Times change. It’s time.

I see episodes of statue toppling, not as an effort to deny or eliminate their history but rather, to forcefully renounce it. Confederate monuments to white supremacy ought to be replaced by figures of a more uplifting nature.

Thank goodness your grandparents and parents found their way to this blessed country. Many others still endure great hardship while trying to find their way here. They’re never going to receive the welcome your family did, for as long as Trump is the gatekeeper.

Grace Ling

Puget Island