Letter to the editor: Looting, defunding, protesting, dividing

Why we should not loot, burn and vandalize businesses: I have owned and operated a small business for 40 years. I have invested many long hours and years of hard work to provide for my family and employees. It matters because small business is the backbone of our economy.

Why we should not defund our police departments: The police put their lives on the line every day for our safety. Who went into burning buildings on 9/11 and patrolled the streets throughout the covid-19 crisis? It matters because you want someone to respond when you call 911.

Why we should have the right to peacefully protest: The First Amendment gives everyone the right to freedom of speech. It matters that black lives are protected and their voices are heard. We need to listen and try to understand other people’s points of view even if they differ from our own.

Why we should end divisiveness in this country immediately: We are all brothers and sisters created equally in God’s image. It matters to be loving, kind and forgiving toward each other. We are all Americans and are blessed to live in the USA, the greatest country on earth.

William Porter

Harrison