More than just statues

The New York Times ran an article on June 21 about removing a statue from the Natural History Museum in New York City. The article ended with examples of rioters and vandals destroying statues in other cities, including some of George Washington and Thomas Jefferson. The alleged claim is these statues being destroyed are “too offensive,” according to the article.

But according to whom? Who defines offensive speech? And if that definition lacks consistency, why be enraged or offended? We are living in an age of reduced capacity to think critically and argue rationally, practicing instead mob emotionalism and cultural groupthink.

Personally, I’m fine with removing statues remembering Confederate leaders. But what we - as Americans of all colors, nations, tribes and tongues - ought to strive for is not a society filled with retweets and seeking offenses, but one that forgives, loves, listens and thinks. We need more compassion and less rage.

Chris Johnson

Spokane