Why intolerance must not be tolerated

To the Times:

Bigotry, racism, and/ or hatred must not be tolerated in America or any other country, or in individuals or groups of individuals. Intolerance for the rights and beliefs of others must also not be tolerated. I do not know Stan Wischnowski, but I consider the story about his “resignation” and several columns regarding organizational and personal differences of opinion at the Inquirer to be unfortunate reflections of intolerance.

I fully understand that a headline, “Buildings Matter, Too” was insensitive and offensive to many, and the timing of its use was a mistake in judgment and an error, for which an apology has been issued. However, it appears that, for many at the Inquirer, an apology is not enough. The reality of the bigger picture is that “Lives Matter” deserves the highest priority but “Buildings Matter” is also valid. I have not read in any of the Inquirer coverage any allegation that Mr.

Wischnowski is bigoted, a racist, hateful, or intolerant. If Inquirer editors, reporters, and/or columnists do hold those opinions, they should have the courage to say that. Without personal knowledge of the people or the specifics, my impression is that Mr. Wischnowski’s errors were in judgment and in timing.

Previous and very recent events importantly and properly focus priority attention that, “Black Lives Matter.” Injustices must be addressed and remedied in a respectful, peaceful, constructive, and equitable manner, including injustices that may exist at the Inquirer.

Hopefully, all can agree that “All Lives Matter.” God loves everyone and each of us should accept a personal responsibility to demonstrate Godly love for each other. I respect and accept the right of atheists to disagree with my reference to God, but that should not be permitted to eclipse the importance of respecting others, including those who hold different opinions.

I am an advocate for and defender of freedom of speech and of the press. I respect the right of individuals to peacefully protest injustices in a manner that does not interfere with the rights of others. On Saturday, many individuals in my community responsibly protested on the corners of the intersection of routes 3 and 252 in Newtown Square. Many cars driving by “honked” in support of their cause and message. I did not see all the signs but the ones I did see reflected concern in a positive manner that was not profane, vulgar, or harshly critical. I was impressed to the point that I pulled my car into a parking area behind where many of the “protesters” were gathered, and gave them a case of bottled water that was in my car. I told them that I respected and commended their right to responsibly protest in a manner that respected my right to drive in our community

beliefs and without the intersection being blocked or traffic impeded by protesters. There were many smiles and “thumbs up,” and I am proud of my community. I share this experience because I believe there is “goodness” in all of us that we must allow to transcend the differences.

Although I do not personally agree with some of the editorial commentary and reporting of the Inquirer, much of the content is informative and of value for me, and I learn from the opinions and perspectives that differ from my own. It is for this reason that I continue to subscribe.