County Councilmember Nate Nehring said in a recent essay in Herald Forum that he learned in visits to schools that students want more civility in politics (“We need to recommit to non-violence in politics,” The Herald, June 16).
Amen to that. Live, and let live. Back when I was in junior high school 60 plus years ago, we had a class called civics that I think was a requirement. In it we learned that democracy was a form of government of the people, by the people, and for the people. Citizens voted and the majority ruled. The minority became the “loyal opposition” until the next election, characterized as a peaceful revolution. People had government-insured rights to life, liberty, and pursuit of happiness, and could swing your arms as long as you did not hit someone or interfere with another’s right.
Things have evolved. A few years ago, the concept of civility in respecting and protecting others rights to living and having dignity became known as “political correctness.” A few years later, some decided for whatever reason being “PC” was a bad thing and were proud to boast of their defiance of it. Hence, we are here now with everyone one edge. People do not accept outcome of elections and showing their disdain has become crude beyond disrespect. Bumper stickers on a national level, as well as some at a local level display this objection to our system of government. Some fear that democracy is doomed to failure.
The current House Jan. 6 select committee hearings are a case in point. The overwhelming opinion of well-respected people in the know, of both political persuasions, and supported by court decisions, is that there was no fraud or manipulations in counting ballots and all handling was in conformance with the normal processing procedures in the 2020 election. Yet, some have been convinced that it was “rigged” or “stolen” and will not accept the results.
This minority falls to two categories. Per Bill Barr, former attorney general, one is detached from reality if they believe it. And the others are knowingly perpetuating a proven lie. Both of these factions are damaging the chance for survival of civility and our democracy.
It is my hope that the younger generation can get us back to civil discourse without threats of, and actual violence, and continue the peaceful model of governing intended to deal with the change and growth in America, that was carefully planned, prepared, and presented by our founding fathers in our Constitution, and all will accept the decisions of the majority.
Bill Severson
Stanwood
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