Stop with the non-factual talking points

A frequent contributor’s most recent submission headlined “Stars and stripes means everything” falls squarely into two distinct categories: 1) generalizations say more about the person espousing them than their intended target; and 2) patriotism run amok is a dangerous thing.

Let’s get this out of the way right up front — I love America. Period.

What I don’t like is letters to the editor espousing falsehoods and non-factual talking points, e.g., “our previous president routinely expressed disdain for America” (really?), and “Do any of the players know what they are protesting?” (yes, I think they do).

NFL players, their team owners (comprising the 1 percent), and millions of patriotic Americans aren’t coming together to disrespect the national anthem or our flag or those who valiantly and fearlessly serve under it.

Rather, we are calling attention to racial injustice in our communities, and standing up to a “president” who sows discord and sadly sets the example of race and ethnicity-based generalization.

Taking a knee in Bluffton,

This story was originally published November 3, 2017 at 7:39 AM with the headline "Stop with the non-factual talking points."