Las Vegas Sun

March 28, 2024

LETTER TO THE EDITOR:

Tea Parties, witch hunts and McCarthy

I recently finished reading two entirely different books. One was about the Salem witch hunts, and the other involved the McCarthy hearings on communism. There were obvious differences in the times and the values, but as I read each one, I recognized underlying similarities.

Both times in our history were based on fear and ignorance, with a large dose of self-righteousness. Both times reflected an anxiety about change and quickness to label ideological differences.

Both books stirred a sense of unease. They brought to mind the current Tea Parties and the angry, intolerant attitudes toward change shown by some. Instead of witches and communists, today people are labeled socialists and fascists.

The books recorded the rhetoric meant to inspire fear, as is so often seen today on so-called news programs and talk shows. So far there have not been hangings and burnings or even hearings, but these times have all the signs of repeating parts of our history that were prejudiced and shameful.

My wish is that we learn from history and, rather than repeat it, choose to grow in tolerance and understanding, and as well demonstrate basic common courtesy to our fellow citizens.

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