Editor, Times-Union:
I want to thank everyone behind the scenes who have reached out to me to show support and gratitude for saying what they are afraid to say. Some fear jeopardizing their jobs; some wish to avoid creating animosity with neighbors, family, or friends; some are fearful of retaliation from those who disagree with their views.
To folks who undoubtedly call me that “crazy liberal lady,” I want you to know that I do not identify with any party. I have voted Republican, Democrat, Independent, and have even written in names of candidates. I believe all people should be treated fairly, everyone should have equal rights, and that no one is above the law. I will always speak out against injustice — against anyone.
I believe that as Americans, as humans, all people should be allowed to be themselves, love whom they choose, practice whatever religion they wish, and peacefully voice their political views without condemnation or recrimination. I believe in honest conversation, the sharing of factual information, and the willingness to really listen to opposing views — but not made-up false “facts.” I do not claim to know it all but am always willing and ready to learn.
I am a mother, a grandmother and a great-grandmother. Two of my grandparents were immigrants. My father was a veteran and a policeman. I put myself through college and was a teacher for several years. I paid my way, paid my dues, learned and taught others the value of hard work. As a retired senior citizen, I have time to spend searching for truth and learning to separate it from disinformation, conspiracies, and outright lies. I do not write letters to “stir things up” but rather to share information with folks who do not have time to do their own research. I never submit anything untrue, and I am always prepared with reliable “receipts.”
In my lifetime, there have been multiple wars and fourteen presidents. There have been innumerable crises and tragedies involving thousands of American citizens, but our country has always survived and even become stronger. However, what we are all living through now is like nothing I’ve ever seen in America before. Currently I am extremely fearful for the future of America, and for the continuation of our democracy. The threat of powerful people and their unlimited resources to deny the will of the people has always existed, but not until the former administration came to power did the threat have the possibility of succeeding.
The powers behind the Heritage Foundation and Project 2025 who are really in control of what used to be the Republican Party and an impartial Supreme Court could very well see to it that the November election is our last election … ever. Trump recently admitted this. Our new world allies could be named Putin, Orban, Xi and Un. Are you willing to let that happen? It’s time to stop, look for and listen to the truth.
Jeanne Tuka Schutz
Winona Lake, via email