Hateful rhetoric embraced by some in Orleans County

Editor:

Over the past year there have been many letters to the editor sent by concerned citizens regarding everything from Gaines and Murray government to letters condemning the Democratic Party for its belief in ideals held sacred since our country was founded.

As the First Amendment states: “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press: or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.”

I applaud those that speak out. I applaud those who refuse to sit on the sidelines and do or say nothing. I applaud those willing to take a stand.

I do not applaud those that speak out using words of hate or those that tell lies in order to spin issues to their own narrow-minded agendas.

I am concerned that there has crept into our community the hateful rhetoric that seems to be consuming other parts of our country. I have always thought that the people of Orleans County were better than that.

Please remember that when you label a person, group of people or a political party using words of hate you are labeling your friends, co-workers, neighbors and family as well as giving others insight into your character or lack thereof.

Everyone I know, no matter their race, political party or beliefs all want the same things. They want their children to be safe, they want to be able to work to support their families, they want to live their lives in peace.

Sandra Walter

Albion