Letter writers question American values, object to state training program, and endorse Resource Hub
American values? What are they?
Much has been written about American values, but as a European immigrant I wonder what this actually means.
Seventeenth century Pilgrims escaped European monarchies endeavoring never to repeat inequalities for future populations. Yet, 21st century Americans — divided by two political parties, plus the super rich and the struggling poor — I see the exact same scenario repeated. In addition others are squelched because of gender, mental disabilities, race, religion and sexual orientation.
Americans are “boycotting” European culture in favor of: pop culture, mass sports, gun obsession, incorrect use of the English language, noisy outbursts parading as music, over-eating of unheathy foods, beverages, and shunning African Americans, Native Americans, Asians and Jews. Who could genuinely be proud of such a record?
The abandoning of “Old World’s Best” has been foolish and cruel. High Tech deepened the above. Negative, deliberate indoctrinations bode ill for future American adults devoid of sensitivities, rationality or caring.
When will Americans shape up and live their self-professed ideals?
Helga Teske, Olympia
WFSE members call for end to discriminatory training
Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE) members working at the state Department of Health are calling for an end to the use of Outward Mindset, a mandatory corporate training program that discourages employees from reporting workplace discrimination or harassment.
It’s our job to provide essential health support to our fellow Washingtonians. Public service is not always easy — we do it because we care. The Outward Mindset program is a major hindrance in our work.
Being told to internalize experiences of discrimination at work is harming our coworkers, particularly those marginalized due to race, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or other lived experience. This “empathy training” conflicts with Washington’s Pro-Equity Anti-Racist (PEAR) values, and it’s being broadly used in hiring decisions, disciplinary processes, and employee evaluations.
So far, Outward Mindset has wasted $2.5 million of taxpayer money that we wish had gone towards breast cancer screenings, suicide prevention measures, or additional COVID response measures.
We have been outspoken on this issue, collecting hundreds of petition signatures, speaking to the media, and contacting the governor. There has been no substantive change.
Now is the time to bring this program to an end and return our focus to providing vital services to Washingtonians.
Mike Yestramski, President, AFSCME Council 28/WFSE
Support the Thurston County Hub
I urge folks to support a new Thurston County service, the Thurston County Resource Hub. It’s geared toward people who are involved in the justice system, but service is open to anyone. The Hub helps clients with housing, substance use disorder, jobs, peer support, case management, and social services as well as navigating the legal system. The Hub also has clothing, food, and toiletries for those in need. Everyone who comes to the Hub will leave with a plan.
Nate Block, the Hub manager, says, “We want to help more people and we have the capacity to do so. The stakeholders for the Hub are invested in its success, and I think it’s important for people to know that the Resource Hub is here to serve the community. This is a place where people who need help and are willing to accept help can get the resources they need.”
The Hub has served around 1,500 people since May 2022 and expects to expand hours, space, and staff later this year.
Nate wants to spread the word so more people will use Hub services and more service providers will get involved. He’s also seeking donations of clothing, food, and toiletries.
The Hub at 929 Lakeridge Drive SW, Olympia, is open noon to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Learn more about the Hub at its website, or phone 360-786-5230 or email nathanael.block@co.thurston.wa.us.
Steve Tilley, Lacey