Moral issue
Re “Don’t remove Thomas Nelson’s name from college” (Other Views, Jan.
2): James DellaValle presents an inapt analogy in defending retention of Thomas Nelson’s name on the community college. DellaValle’s premise is that applying today’s knowledge and values concerning slavery, not just race relations, to the 18th century is akin to judging the 15th century’s scientific observations of the universe based on our 21st century knowledge.
But many revolutionary leaders such as Alexander Hamilton, John Adams and Marquis de Lafayette opposed slavery. Great Britain challenged the colonies on the hypocrisy of seeking independence from Britain while failing to abolish slavery.
Race relations, not just slavery, has always been a moral issue and not an unfolding science. At least as far back as biblical times, writers condemned slavery and Jesus preached God’s love for all human beings.
So Thomas Nelson does not get a pass for his views on slavery, no matter in what time he lived.
Philip Russo, Virginia Beach
These vital organizations not only bring diversity and entertainment to our communities, they provide significant economic impact.
Americans for the Arts reported an
$87.7 million economic impact and 2,875 jobs credited to the cultural arts here in Virginia Beach.
It should not go unrecognized that Virginia Beach City Council and new
City Manager Patrick Duhaney recently allocated a commendable $1.8 million of federal CARES Act funding for nonprofits, with more than $930,000 dedicated to arts and cultural organizations.
This noteworthy commitment to saving our local arts and cultural resources is one to champion. As a lifelong resident of Virginia Beach, I am proud to see this action was taken.
An avid arts patron and participant in cultural treasures such as the Virginia Beach Public Art Foundation, Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art and the ViBe Creative District, I have witnessed firsthand the direct benefit arts organizations have on Virginia Beach residents and tourists alike.
To lose our local arts and cultural organizations would be to lose a large part of our identity in what makes the city of Virginia Beach unique. Thanks to city of Virginia Beach leadership for their remarkable support.
Andrew Fine, chair, ViBe Creative District & Virginia Beach Art Foundation, Virginia Beach