To the Editor:
Recently, I was mailed a hateful and misinformed letter in response to a few of my previous submissions for the Letter to the Editor that I feel compelled to address because it reflects a larger issue plaguing our country and Gasconade County — the dangerous spread of fear, misinformation, and division.
The letter attacked my values, mocked my political beliefs, and made unfounded claims about my support for workers, immigrants, and reproductive rights. While I welcome debate, the tone and content of the letter underscore a troubling trend, one where disagreements are no longer handled with civility, and instead, personal attacks and baseless accusations are used to silence differing views.
Addressing the Claims:
1. Workers and the Economy: The financial challenges faced by companies like PPG and others reflect broader economic trends, not a single party’s policies. Corporations are making decisions based on profit, often at the expense of workers. It’s misleading to blame Democrats, especially when Trump and his allies have consistently prioritized corporate interests over worker protections. Let’s not forget: Trump’s first term saw tax cuts for the wealthy, not policies that addressed the needs of the working class.
2. Immigration and Border Policy: The letter criticizes my support for humane immigration policies. Let me be clear: securing borders and treating people with dignity are not mutually exclusive. Trump’s border appointee, Tom Homan, has already stated his intent to deport entire families without regard for their circumstances. This isn’t about safety; it’s about dehumanization, and we should all be concerned.
3. Reproductive Rights: The claim that I support “killing unborn babies up till birth” misrepresents my stance. In fact, I trust individuals to make personal medical decisions without government interference. These are complex, deeply personal issues, and no one takes them lightly. Even including vasectomies.
4. Faith and Judgment: It was particularly disheartening to read accusations about my faith. My beliefs are rooted in love, compassion, and understanding. Casting judgment on others runs counter to the teachings of Christ, who emphasized loving one another and welcoming the stranger.
The Current Political Climate: In the weeks since Donald Trump’s reelection, we’ve seen alarming steps toward consolidating power. Trump has announced plans to purge the military of those he labels “disloyal” or “woke,” echoing tactics used by authoritarian leaders like Hitler during the “Night of the Long Knives.” His appointees lack the experience needed to lead, yet they wield enormous power to dismantle key institutions.
Trump’s Project 2025 outlines plans to eliminate the Department of Education, stripping support from rural schools like ours. Programs like Head Start and free lunches are under threat, which will harm the very children our community should be protecting.
A Call to Action:The letter I received lacked a return address, a cowardly move reminiscent of Trump’s own tactics. But let me be clear: I am not deterred. We cannot afford to be silent as our values and democracy are threatened. It’s easy to feel hopeless, but apathy is not the answer.
I urge my fellow community members to stay informed, engage in dialogue, and stand up for what is right. This isn’t about party lines, it’s about protecting the core principles of democracy, humanity, and compassion. We must resist the urge to divide further and instead come together to fight for a future that serves all Americans.
Sincerely,
Arlynn Jones
Owensville
