Don't put prejudices into actions

With the rare exception of using song titles a little too salty for Sunday newspaper reader sensibilities — in which case he gently suggests an effective alternative — my editor has never reined me in or told me what to write.

In the late 1990s, I wrote a column for him when he was the regional editor at the Amarillo newspaper. Although I have a general idea of his politics and am sure he sometimes or often disagrees with mine, he has never censored my opinions.

When I see comments on the editor’s Facebook page about the newspaper having a liberal or conservative bias, I laugh. This paper has a well-rounded diversity of viewpoints. I disagree so strongly with some columnists I wonder how they could spout such nonsense.

Yet, I try to keep an open mind and would wrestle Donald Trump and Mike Pence singlehandedly over everyone’s right to their opinions.

When I encounter local residents whom I know have different political, religious or philosophical views from me, the interaction is still always warm and cordial.

Whether liberal, conservative or libertarian, I can’t imagine any of them not having my back in a crisis — and vice versa.

Of course, the camaraderie would evaporate if the differences encompassed hatred based on race, nationality, sexual or religious identity and other Neanderthal non-starters.

People are welcome to have any abhorrent prejudice they want, but are not welcome to let actions caused by their tiny little warped brains in their tiny little tribal worlds infringe on their targets’ inalienable right to pursue happiness and fulfillment far from the mad crowd.

Some snowflake social media friends and I recently engaged in a robust discussion about comedian Michelle Wolf’s performance at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner.

While we agreed she made valid points about lying and hypocrisy by politicians, some felt she was too vulgar while others felt she was on target in attacking those with no regard for the truth.

I sided with those who felt snowflakes should set an example by exhibiting a level of discourse that gets the point across without resorting to the “grab them by the” crassness of some born with a silver spoon in their mouth.

Of course, Wolf is a comedian and her performance has become the norm in comedy venues.

Nevertheless, I am not sure fighting vulgarity with vulgarity is effective in attacking those without integrity. (Although, despite what some thought, she didn’t attack the physical appearance of her targets, it’s a given that doing so is not the way to win over the corrupt and influence liars.)

Speaking of freedom of speech and holding the powerful accountable, I hope High Plains residents appreciate “The Eastern New Mexico News.”

Although I am not an employee, I see government officials’ feet being held to the fire and all non-slanderous views being welcomed.

If a writer’s opinion does not jive with yours, try keeping an open mind. If that is a bridge too far, take comfort in knowing there are columnists from your clan who will reinforce your views.

Finally, before parroting “fake news” about this paper, please read the banner at the top of the front page:

“2017 Associated Press State Newspaper of the Year Honoree”

Contact Wendel Sloan at: [email protected]