I came to this country in 1979. The Sixties and the division in this country between people against and for the Vietnam war I have only experienced through books and movies. I certainly have never witnessed anything like what is happening in this nation at present. No, it is not democratic to physically attack a person because of his or her opinion of the war or US politics. No, it is not right to kick in the window of a car that bears a bumper sticker you disagree with. I find it sad that United Way of Tampa Bay had to cancel an appearance of Susan Sarandon at a fundraiser because too many people objected to her “anti war stance”. United Way doesn’t question a person about their political stance before they help. Should helping people in need depend on whether they share a certain opinion? When your fellow human stumbles should you ask about his God or political opinion before you help him up? Debate and discussion may not change a lot of opinions, but violence or politicizing groups like United Way certainly does not.
If we politicize the helping and aiding of people in need are we really better than the group described as paramilitary Iraqis who fired upon civilians who were receiving fresh water and food from US or UK soldiers yesterday?