Gerson’s moral failure

What is the purpose of Michael Gerson’s rhetorical litigation of the U.S. founders’ “moral failures,” or the New York Times’ 1619 Project that triggered the basis of his column in The Spokesman-Review (“We must concede founders’ failure,” Sep. 11)? Native Americans took slaves long before 1619.

Perpetuating slavery wasn’t an impetus for the American Revolution. Actually, Jefferson resented England for allowing its establishment and continuation.

When Washington and Jefferson were born, slavery was an ingrained economic and social institution. Yet, these men’s thoughts transcended their environment to profusely pronounce, advocate and fight for the principles of Natural Law and the fact that all men are created equal.

If the principles of slavery were the philosophical cornerstone of our government, slavery would exist today. The founders were instrumental in establishing the pillars of liberty that Republicans, abolitionists, and President Lincoln utilized to remove slavery from this nation.

Unfortunately, Virginian founding fathers died owning slaves they inherited – partly due to Virginia law. Northerners like Franklin and Adams did not. The founders’ legacy is no longer an experiment, but a successful governmental system expanding liberty for all. What the likes of Washington, Jefferson, Franklin, and Adams accomplished was a moral victory. The moral failure is not recognizing it.

Duncan Bean

Spokane Valley