Letters to the editor for July 12

Don’t overlook the message of protests

I continue to hear from compassionate people who are focusing their primary concern on the vandalism that has occurred during protests against police murder and brutality, rather than the murder of George Floyd, and the long history of police brutality against people of color in this country.

These discussions are disheartening, and so I wonder if focusing in this direction is a way for some to deflect from facing the reality of why these protests began, and shielding from the harsh sickening truth: A man was murdered coldly by a public servant sworn to protect, while being filmed in front of witnessess, and that this brutality has a long dark history in this country.

For those who are privileged to have lived outside the world of racial injustice and oppression, this is the time and opportunity to listen, learn and look deeper. For all that is being said about peaceful protesting, the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. was murdered too.

Dr. King said in his “The Other America” speech at Stanford University:

“A riot is the language of the unheard. And what is it America has failed to hear? ... It has failed to hear that the promises of freedom and justice have not been met. And it has failed to hear that large segments of white society are more concerned about tranquility and the status quo than about justice and humanity.”

Kathryn Schroeder, Lacey

To protesters wanting to defund police

During the Vietnam war there was a saying that went, “What if they gave a war but nobody came?” Now change it up to “What if you need a police officer but none was available?” That’s what you’re asking for when you demand that cities defund police departments. What if your child was home alone or you had someone break into your home and no officer is available?

Demand instead an Office for Police Oversight. Make all officers have a psychological exam every three to four years. Have a place that registers former officers who have gone overboard in the past.

If you succeed in getting budgets cut, then you will see a spike in gun sales and more nervous people who will shoot first and ask questions later.

There are an awful lot of good officers out there — and some bad ones as well that don’t need to be working as police officers. Let’s figure out other ways to address this before you need a police officer and can’t find one.

Bonnie B. Lindsey, Elma

Vote for Darcy in the 35th LD

I’ve worked with Darcy Huffman as a close colleague and friend for many years. I know her to be hard-working, fiscally savvy, and compassionate. Her wide range of experience in small business is just what Washington needs during these financially challenging times. Her commitment to providing opportunities for people who might otherwise be left out as the economy improves is demonstrated in her desire for excellent, affordable health care for all as well as bringing high-speed internet access to rural areas in Thurston, Mason, and Kitsap counties.

As our state carefully re-opens and recovers from the COVID-19 crisis, her experience and commitment will be crucial to making sure that no one gets left behind because of their income level or where they live. She will make an excellent state representative for the 35th Legislative District.

John P Rosenberg, Tumwater