I disagree with Neil Godbout and his editorial about Donald Trump's slow response to the Charlottesville incident. Donald Trump finally got it right - he took time to learn the facts as opposed to jumping on the trending wagon and he correctly noted that it takes two sides to tangle.
Most citizens are well meaning and go about their lives respecting others and their opinions. Unfortunately, this majority are continually being suppressed by those who believe they are superior in knowledge and opinion. Any opinion that doesn't support the "trend of the day" is suppressed. Political correctness has become stifling and freedom of speech is now simply freedom to agree with what's trending.
The self-appointed brilliant people now believe they have the right to rewrite history. There is much effort today to rewrite the history that occurred hundreds of years ago. From the comfort of our evolved surroundings and a blurred vision of the distant past - do we really have that right? If man can survive another one hundred years, I wonder if the new "most brilliant" people of that day will rewrite history again.
I understand that the original rally was arranged to protest the removal of the statue of Robert E Lee. I may not be supportive of that redneck group but I do support that they have the right to express their beliefs.
Why did the anti-redneck people need to hold their rally at the same time in the same place? Are they really so stupid that they did not think there would be confrontation? No, I believe, they intended to bully the rednecks. Had the anti-rednecks not attended, would the world had heard about the rally? Would anyone have cared? Not often I agree with Donald Trump but this time he has it right! Give him credit when credit is due - both sides were ill intended.
Solutions and the future is really what is important. Here are my thoughts:
Historical records from more than 30 years in the past should not be allowed to be rewritten without being voted on by the people. This could be included on a ballot with each government election. If it is not important enough to vote on - leave it alone.
If a protest or a rally is approved then an anti-rally should only be allowed at a distant location. What is the purpose of having two opposing rallies in the same location at the same time except to promote confrontation.
There will always be a difference of opinion among people and countries of the world. Our differences can make for good conversation and a better more diverse life. Respect for each other is needed from both sides and often both sides have value in their beliefs.
Gerry Lundquist
Prince George
