Who is the enemy?

Margaret Gorski, Stevensville

Thank you to the American Legion organizers of the Corvallis Memorial Day Parade for your hard work continuing the tradition of honoring our fallen soldiers who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our nation. Having marched in this parade many times, it looked like one of the best attended in years. It is always rewarding. Unfortunately, my enjoyment and pride were marred by two incidents that warrant sharing. 

First, while preparing our entry, someone yelled, “You are the enemy.”  It was delivered with such force and volume its intended purpose was obvious.

I was marching with the Ravalli County Democrats to honor all our fallen soldiers, no matter their party. My grandfather fought in WWI. My father served in WWII, the Korean Conflict, and the Vietnam War. Both were Christians and Democrats. They gave me the principles that guide me today. But because I identify with Democrat values, I am “the enemy”?  Whose enemy and of what? 

Because I believe that government can actually play a positive role in our lives, that everyone deserves equal justice under the law, that taxes are the price we pay for beneficial services only the government can provide, and that your freedom shouldn’t come at the expense of mine, that makes me your enemy? My grandfather, who nearly gave his life in the trenches in France, would be enraged and ready to defend his granddaughter against such a thoughtless accusation. 

I was first shocked, then angered, but mostly, just saddened. What was once considered healthy political competition has turned into hate and rage. It makes no sense, especially in Ravalli County where Republicans hold ALL the elected positions. If anyone should be angry, it should be those of us whose views are ignored in the state legislature by our locally elected officials. I don’t view Republicans as my enemy. I just disagree with many, but not all, Republican policy priorities.

Because I believe that compromise is the best way that a community of diverse people can live together in peace, prosperity, and harmony, that makes me your enemy?

Derogatory sneers and intimidating threats are not new to us. Unfortunately, the combination of boos, frowns, and openly carried sidearms along the parade route cause many of us to be concerned about our safety and opt to stay home instead. I have marched in many of the parades in the valley, Memorial Day, Creamery Picnic, and the Fair Parade. Hearing publicly announced sarcastic and belittling comments has occurred more than once. That is why we asked the parade announcer to stick to the script as we passed the grandstand for fear that his words would add more fuel to the already hostile atmosphere we felt. 

We have a system of government that demands citizen participation and respect between the two major parties. Believe it or not, there are close to 10,000 people in this valley who identify with Democratic values. Democrats are your neighbors. They include our teachers, our firefighters, our doctors and nurses and clergy. I want to believe that many of you don’t think of us as your enemy just because we are not Republicans. However, for those who do, we are indeed headed down a very dark and dangerous path both here and nationally. If you share my concern about the future of our nation, help us overcome this divide. We aren’t your enemies. We can live respectfully and peacefully together, but for us to succeed, it must start right here at home.