I find the extreme political rhetoric in our country abhorrent. It is fueling political violence committed on both ends of the political spectrum.
Yet, I also understand the need to ardently voice our concerns.
I do not frame these concerns in terms of political affiliation. I voice them in terms of humanity. Our current political system affords us the right to speak out. Yet, we cannot seem to find a way to communicate with each other in a way that humanizes our concerns.
I want people to be treated with respect. I want our voices to be heard even when our concerns and passions do not align with one political viewpoint or another. We need to speak with each other, not at each other.
Unfortunately, the current U.S. administration sends the message that if you do not see things their way, your voice should be silenced. I will not be silent. I will continue to speak up and peacefully point out the inhumanity that we see playing out on a daily basis. I will not support a political viewpoint on either end of the political spectrum simply because I am told to.
I will see the humanity in others. I will continue to experience wonder and awe in the innovations that science reveals. I will marvel at the beauty of art. I will find peace in my faith. I will show up to participate in our democracy as part of an informed electorate. I will reach out to others to try and connect, compromise and coexist.
I am part of “We the People” who have both the right and the responsibility to exercise freedom of speech. I choose to exercise that right to have a meaningful and peaceful dialogue with all of humanity.
Shauna Wilhelm
Chehalis
