Dear editor,
Words matter. What we say conveys meaning, purpose, and values. Protest is a style of speaking which intends to state publicly matters of importance. The Bill of Rights enshrines the right to protest under the clause freedom of speech. We also have the right to peaceably assemble so that our protest might have a public forum. In our history as a nation such public protest has been important, motivating the citizenry to act. It is part of what makes this a democracy. Three times over the last several weeks Ogle County citizens have gathered on the sidewalks of courthouse square in Oregon to protest current American policy. It is their right to do so. They have followed the request of public officials so that the assemblage would be peaceful, respectful and without incident. I know many of the people who have participated. While it is also an enshrined right to protest the views of the protesters, I am still dismayed over the content of the "counter protest." The language has been demeaning, dismissive and offensive. The conversation that has emerged is less about ideas and principles as it is about personalities, personal loyalties and silencing dissent. How do we get beyond this impasse? Perhaps by understanding what freedom of speech means. Freedom of speech is akin to liberty, and the concept of liberation. If we are liberated then our language can be used to pursue the fruit of liberty. The language of a bully only serves to hold us back, create animosity, and display the desire to have power over another person. I do not wish to live in an unjust and alienating society that such provocative language put forth by bullies will create. I shall protest.
-Rev. Ronald D. Larson, retired clergy, Mt. Morris
