In “Welcome profiling” (Voice of the people, June 21), letter writer Renee Farrell wrote that, as a 45-year-old, Caucasian female, she would not mind being profiled if it would “prevent further loss of lives at the hands of terrorists.” I agree with this completely.
She then goes on, however, to warn: “To those who disagree, I’d like to remind them of the old adage: America, love it or leave it!”
Here we must part company.
Like Farrell, I am a Caucasian female, but I am 65 years old and I’m old enough to remember how certain groups that adopted this seemingly innocuous little slogan tore our country apart in the 1960s. It split us into those who supported Barry Goldwater and the John Birch Society versus those who supported Lyndon Johnson and seriously questioned the Vietnam War.
The American flag was also held hostage by the “love it or leave it” group through that period. Surely we don’t want to go through that again.
I’m someone who loves this country and who thinks that it’s important and even patriotic to ask questions about the policies the government is promoting. Thoughtful discussion and debate indicate that we’re paying attention. They are a valued privilege and are available only in an open society.
I sincerely hope that Farrell is not suggesting that it’s no longer appropriate for a citizen to voice questions or disagree with government positions. (And I’m not about to let any group take away my flag again!)
