After reading the recent reporting of Jerry Cornfield, we once again see the tail (Boeing) wagging the dog (us, Washington state.) Boeing has lots of “wants” this legislative session, and again, we are expected to tremble if Boeing is not satisfied.
Boeing, whose quarterly net profits are in the billions, does not want, nor will it be forced to spend some of its millions of dollars to start reducing its pollution into Puget Sound, and elsewhere. You see, if the 40-year-old data on our seafood consumption is updated to be accurate, it will show we are consuming more seafood from our local waters. The seafood contains toxins from pollution. The more we consume, the more toxins we ingest. Boeing’s wish to suppress current consumption is akin to allowing us to unwittingly poison ourselves at a rate known to be harmful. And some of our politicians actually consider allowing this? Like Gregoire did? How about Jay Inslee, who campaigned as an environmentalist?
How can it be that this company believes it above regulation and social responsibility? How is it that our elected officials cannot wean themselves from the financial teat of this morally corrupt company? Is Washington such an undesirable state that we cannot attract replacement business if (actually it’s when) Boeing runs off to a state who cares less about environmental issues? Do not the thousands of Boeing workers have concern for what their employer is doing? How about making one of the next strike demands be that Boeing become reasonably responsible for its environmental destruction?
With all of the concessions this state has given this company over the years, totaling billions, is it really too much for the peasants to ask that you be more socially and morally responsible to us in return? The cost to do so really is not much in comparison to your wealth and income. Profits over health? Really? Isn’t this a form of prostitution? I would like to see some response from the Boeing CEO or one of his cronies on this subject, but my bet is they are unwilling to do so. The same goes for any politician who even hesitates at holding Boeing responsible. Let’s hear your spin.
If our Legislature somehow has the fortitude to hold Boeing responsible, and Boeing plays the “we are picking up our toys to go to another playground” card, then fine, please leave. And leave room on the plane for those spineless politicians who are in your pocket.
Rob Dietz
Arlington
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