Dissent is patriotic

First, thanks to the organizers of the Spokane Woman’s March for creating an opportunity where those of us concerned about the future of our country could come together in solidarity. I marched because our democracy and civil rights are under attack and this affects everyone. I come to this conclusion based on the rhetoric of Trump and his Cabinet selections.

Trump has stated that he wants to change libel laws so he can muzzle the press when they report things he doesn’t like. Trump has stated that people who did not support him are his “enemies.” Most of his Cabinet picks do not support the mission statements of the departments they will be heading.

We need to protect our environment. The regulations we have are necessary. Workers’ rights are important and were hard-fought for. Public education is a mainstay of democracy. The common good is more important that privatizing our democratic institutions so that corporations can make more money which does not trickle down to the 99 percent.

Trump must be held accountable for his words and actions. Dissent is the highest form of patriotism.

Sylvia Gobel

Spokane