The sound of silence
We’ve got plenty of ways to show our displeasure with our fellow man, some more appropriate than others. Circumstances matter.
Booing is acceptable at certain events. Think sports. Think bad calls. Such as anytime a Razorback is called for holding.
But booing a participant at an assembly as volunteers exchange views on a ballot measure? What would mama say?
State Rep. Bob Ballinger of Berryville stood before the Political Animals of Northwest Arkansas on Friday. He was one of two speakers who addressed the crowd of about 200 concerning tort reform, and he spoke in defense of Issue 1 on the November ballot. Speaking opposite of him was former Arkansas Supreme Court Justice Paul Danielson. Both spoke for 10 minutes on their positions and then took questions from the audience.
And here’s where things got rowdy. Justice Danielson, while speaking, had referred to Issue 1 as “bait and switch” and questioned how trustworthy lawmakers might could be. So Bob Ballinger addressed that while also answering a question from the audience (of which a good chunk were attorneys and members of the Arkansas Bar Association). He made the point that lawmakers who put forth this ballot measure were everymen just trying to do right by voters—and not corrupt politicians seeking to rewrite judiciary rules.
At that, many in the audience started booing the lawmaker. He tried to continue addressing the matter but became visibly frustrated with the audience and stepped away from the microphone. At that point, Circuit Judge John Threet, who headlines these gatherings, raised his voice, saying enough was enough. Sometimes it takes an adult.
Our considered editorial opinion, for we were there: Americans have enough trouble maintaining civility in today’s polarized political environment. There’s no need to boo someone in this setting. Silence would have been more effective. Ask any Southern lady.
In fact, Justice Danielson was applauded several times. If Rep. Ballinger’s opposition in the audience really wanted to express displeasure, they could have sat on their hands when he finished speaking.
In these circumstances, when a room goes silent after a presentation, the person holding the microphone gets the message loud and clear. And mama would approve.