Dear Editor,

Upon reading your editorial of Jan. 20, “Speaking Out” I felt compelled to respond, though not because I disagree with you in regards to vandalism it is appalling and should not be condoned, but because a good editorial should be an objective analysis of the presenting situation and while they often lead into opinions of the writer I feel we would all be better suited to keep it respectful.

The antipathy you’ve shown to those suffering from substance abuse and the lack of judgment you displayed by mocking them in your piece was . . .

unwarranted. And I would even go further to say that what your paper published was prejudiced. Not only had you shown little regard for those with afflictions but you further go on to insult those very people who chose a more productive legal and safe approach of demonstration, rather than criminal vandalism. I wonder how many of those demonstrating have you actually spoken to, asked who they are, why they were demonstrating, or whether they voted at the last election before disparaging them in such a manner?

So while you publicly belittle them with your preconceived opinions and insult them with “mental masturbation,” “public tantrums” and “angry memes on Facebook,” I must applaud them for having the courage to stand up for their convictions in such a place that would publicly encourage such a shameful editorial and I would hope that your other readers do as well. At a time when our children have painted “We are All in this Together” on windows or signs and we teach them about respect and bullying, I would expect better judgment and support from a neighbour of your position, especially considering you are supposed to be representing “the voice of the Pontiac.”

We should all show sensitivity to those suffering from various misgivings, (ie. life situations, substance abuse etc.), and hope to see this in future editorials.

Amy Thrifty

J0X 1M0