Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
Editor, Times-Union:
Dear Mr. Fribley,
I have never, ever, ever called MAGAs “stupid” or “brain dead.” How interesting that those are words chosen by you — not me. I suggest you re-read my ad explaining what D.E.I. really is and why it had become an important teaching tool in businesses, law enforcement, education, public service programs, the military, etc. Are you suggesting that we do not need to learn to understand people different from us so that we can get along better with each other? Or are you part of the faction of believers who insists we all should think alike, look alike, behave alike and reject all who are in any way different? Do you believe what Trump and his administration have suggested, that having DEI programs in place means the “white” jobs will be replaced by unqualified “other color” people?
That is not at all what DEI means. You do realize, do you not, that this administration needs Americans to believe they are being replaced — to be fired up and upset by that premise — so they can justify and accomplish their goal of ridding the country of non-whites and/or anyone else who is not like them? Americans have been lied to and have thus fallen for the hateful, false rhetoric of the millionaire/billionaire oligarchs whose Project 2025 plan for our country is being followed obediently by the Trump administration.
The whole purpose of D.E.I. programs was “to promote the fair treatment and full participation of all people, particularly groups who have historically been underrepresented or subject to discrimination ….” (Wikipedia) I find it quite sad and extremely disturbing that our current government has chosen to cancel, shut down, eliminate any and all programs/classes that would teach people how to get along with each other in order for all of us to work together, live together, learn together, protect and serve our country together — in other words co-exist respectfully and peacefully.
My favorite verse is: “They drew a circle that kept me out – ‘heretic, rebel, a thing to flout.’ But love and I had the wit to win. We drew a circle that took them in.” Will you misunderstand these words as well? In spite of any of our differences, I would “take you in” to a greater circle of acceptance, kindness, and neighborliness.
P.S. I certainly do not believe I am “always right” as you stated, but I do know how to separate truth from fiction, and I am always willing to “listen to others” who can do the same.
Jeanne Tuka Schutz
Winona Lake, via email
