Don’t turn to anger

We are disturbed by the photo of the pick-up truck in a northwest Spokane neighborhood with an offensive message to Governor Inslee followed by a swastika.

We understand that these are VERY stressful times and feel it ourselves. Yet we urge our neighbors to abstain from expressions of anger that include hurtful images such as swastikas which inflame passions and emotions. Now is not the time for division; we need to be coming together.

We also ask everyone to be vigilant and responsible. Watch for and report basic human rights abuses such as child abuse, domestic violence, elder abuse and hateful language or actions against our ethnic and religious communities.

If you are the victim of these abuses or if you have observed them, please reach out to the proper authorities: Crime Check (456-2233), Child Protective Services (1-800-557-9671), YWCA Domestic Violence Crisis Line (326-2255), Elder Abuse Hotline (1-866-363-4276). You may also choose to submit a privacy-protected report to: spokanecountyhumanrightstaskforce.org/hate-report

These times require from us more tolerance, more kindness, and more support of others. Even though we’re feeling stressed and frustrated, let’s resist the urge to be angry and divisive. Please help us keep our community safe and healthy for everyone.

Dean Lynch, President, Spokane County Human Rights Task Force

Spokane