Bigotry begets bigotry

Recent events dramatically focus on the absurdity of creating a world without bigotry. The problem is that in any conflict of ideas there are two sets of bigots. There are those outside of the mainstream, who desire to be heard, and there are those taking the high road, who can not resist referring to the others in derogatory terms.

The only way to rid ourselves of bigotry is for all of us to be of one mind; a very sterile world! An essential element of bigotry is intolerance. Where was the tolerance in referring to them (Westboro Baptist Church) as a hate group or mobilizing a reactionary task force to counter their message?

Do not misunderstand. I am not, in general, sympathetic to the message of the Westboro Baptists, but what I am trying to point out is the irrationality of the high roaders in pretending that somehow they are above bigotry.

Philip Thayer

Nine Mile Falls