Anger over Trump’s inauguration speech
While talking about supposedly unifying the country, Donald Trump could not resist taking another shot at Rep. John Lewis by calling out the “all talk no action” citizens. Thank goodness for the Hispanic reverend who in his inaugural benediction spoke out for the immigrants and minorities whom Trump has constantly vilified. Karen Cliffe, San Francisco
Wait to criticize
I can appreciate the point of view of those letter writers criticizing Nick Hoppe’s “Time for other voices to be heard” ( Jan. 17), and I’m pretty sure that the Donald Trump we’ve seen is the Trump we’ll get. But I remember my thoughtful, intelligent Republican friends, disturbed as they were when Barack Obama became president, acknowledging that he was, like it or not, the president and that he deserved a chance.
In that spirit, I think it’s only fair for us to wait and criticize specific policies rather than demonize the man. Sure, go out and respectfully protest. It’s our right, and the hats are a deserved critique of Trump’s proven misogyny. But I don’t want to belong in the same camp as those idiots who held up signs picturing Obama with an Adolf Hitler mustache, and I sure don’t want to be allied with those brainless Trump supporters who are only capable of thinking with their fists.
David Kelso, Oakland
Unsure of Trump
Regarding “The Trump presidency will improve life for all” (Open Forum, Jan. 20): Howard Epstein confidently lists the things that President Trump will do. How can he assert this list with such confidence? Trump has already backtracked on many pronouncements he made during his campaign. Many of his nominees for his Cabinet have contradicted Trump’s positions. So what will Trump do? Who knows?
One thing we do know: Trump was a divisive candidate and has been divisive during the transition. No sign of an olive branch anywhere. No wonder Trump’s opponents continue to oppose him vigorously. Paul Sheeran, San Francisco
Not so diverse
Regarding “Cabinet complete; no Latinos for 1st time since ’89” ( Jan. 20): Those who think Donald Trump will willingly and graciously let people belonging to the groups he despises be in positions of power need to review his rhetoric on the subject. Though I would like to believe that the many positions that have yet to be filled will go to a diverse population, something tells me there will not be very many reach choices made.
Kaelyn Yergin, San Jose
De-escalate first
Regarding “Don’t Shoot — treat as disabled” ( Jan. 19): Again and again, we read stories of confrontations between police and people with mental illness that result in violence and, often, death. The Crisis Intervention Specialist Team cannot be everywhere, so it is imperative that its methods be understood and implemented by all members of the police force. Force should not be synonymous with use of force.
Years ago, I facilitated a support group for family members of those with mental illness. I heard stories of people at a loss of what to do when their family member acted in a threatening manner. One mother routinely locked her bedroom door to seek refuge from the turmoil.
I would suggest resources including 911, but parents and spouses refused to do that because they feared that their ill family member would be shot. Their fears seemed justified even then, and that was decades before the tragic incidents these days. These victims are people with disabilities that interfere with their ability to interact according to society’s expectations. With the proper help, they can lead happy, productive lives.
Vivian Imperiale, San Francisco
Give him a chance
I was born and raised in the Golden State, and for 42 years I’ve never voted Republican and surely didn’t this election. But everyone’s got their panties in a twist; we need to give this man a chance. He says he wants to bring jobs back to America, secure our borders, reduce crime, build our military up and promises health care for everyone. Maybe we should all take a chill pill and not rush to judgment.
Marty Foster, San Francisco
Thanks, Obama
Thank you, former President Barack Obama, for everything. For believing in the highest vision of who we are and can be. For all the things you did and even for the things you tried to do but couldn’t. For not being like those who opposed you, not because of principled opposition but because they were too willing to exploit others’ prejudice against people of color. For doing as much as you did to wind down two wars; for progress in the struggle to protect the environment; for championing women’s rights and lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer rights. For loving your wife and children as much as I love mine.
For showing that a man’s strength lies in his heart and mind, not in his brawn. For being cool enough to sing an Al Green song in public, and humble enough to sing “Amazing Grace” at a memorial service. For being smart and rational, and also caring, fun-loving, and keenly witty. For always taking your role seriously while not taking yourself seriously. We are all — even your opponents — better for your having been our president. May we be fortunate enough to have another person of your like lead us again. Phil Catalfo, Berkeley
Defend the city
I understand that our Mountain View City Council is wondering whether or not to defend Measure V in court against the California Apartment Association. The City Council should stop stalling, stand up and defend the will and vote of the people of Mountain View. Rent control measures like Measure V have been held up as constitutional by both state and federal governments for decades.
Of course, we can work together to optimize and improve the policy, but the contention that this is unconstitutional was settled long ago. I’ve been a Mountain View homeowner and voter for the last 23 years. I am not happy that you are wondering whether or not to defend my vote.
Dave Arnone, Mountain View
Stay peaceful
Regarding “Getting ready: Will police curb vandals?” ( Jan. 20): Otis R. Taylor Jr.’s excellent column poses the question “Should the city direct police to stop the shadowy demonstrators from busting windows?” It’s sad that this even must be asked. Citizens have the right to peaceful protest. Citizens also have the right to have their property and persons protected. Breaking windows is a crime, never peaceful protest. This one’s easy, Oakland. Enforce the law, protect your citizens — all of them.
Edward Morgan, San Mateo