Letters 10-03-2016

Sept. 30, 2016

Truths And Minorities

While I appreciate Stephen Tuttle’s mention of the Colin Kaepernick situation, I was disappointed he wrote only of his right not to stand for the national anthem but not his reason for doing so. Personally, I commend Mr. Kaepernick for his courageous attempt to bring issues of concern to the forefront. As a white male baby boomer, I sadly realize I am in a minority among my peers. It is so disheartening to hear shallow comments such as "slavery was a long time ago, get over it" or when questioned about the disproportionate number of minorities incarcerated the response is "well, they commit more crimes." It’s a bit more complicated than that. The U.S. not only has a very checkered past, it has a checkered present as well.

The issue of racial oppression is a very complex one and until white America acknowledges the role they have played in the challenges minorities face today and does something about it, there will never be true equality or true peace.

Lee Astrauckas, Mancelona

"Yes" Means Your Rights

It has been brought to my attention that some people in Traverse City are being asked to put "no" on Proposal 3 signs in their yards, and are falsely being told this means they do not want tall buildings downtown. Nothing could be further from the truth. If you vote no, you will be giving up your right to vote on future projects involving buildings over 60 feet in height.

Yes – if passed – simply means you will have the right to vote on tall building proposals in the future. Yes means "let the people decide." Yes means you want a voice in your government. Yes means Yes -- we care about our city. I urge you to vote yes on November 8.

T. Michael Jackson, Traverse City

Shame On NMC, Nelson

The Northwestern Michigan College board and President Tim Nelson should be ashamed of their bad faith negotiations with the faculty. The faculty have received no raise this year, even though all other college staff have received raises. Mr. Nelson is set to receive a $20,000 raise while trying to drastically cut current and future salaries and benefits of those responsible for educating our next generation.