This is a response to Mr. Hood's letter to the editor regarding our Hispanic population. Having been born and raised in the Wood River Valley, we too are well aware of the assets that are embedded in our community, environmentally, socially, culturally and fiscally. We are also aware of the changing dynamics of our area that necessarily come with growth and development. As active members of this valley, we embrace these changes, both positive and negative. With change comes the added need for interaction and cultural appreciation.
We are disheartened and offended by the unequivocal classifications of behavior delineated by race. We are embarrassed that someone who claims to love this valley so much would do so by alienating another vital group of our town. It is said that if you're not part of the solution, you're contributing to the problem. Rather than discussing the problem, we should be talking about the solution. If you have any positive, constructive ideas as to how we might work together to become a safer, healthier community please share them, rather than focusing on who's to blame.
Eugene V. Debs, an American political activist once said, "Years ago I recognized my kinship with all living things, and I made up my mind that I was not one bit better than the meanest on the earth. I said then and I say now, that while there is a lower class, I am in it; while there is a criminal element, I am of it; while there is a soul in prison, I am not free." Crime has no racial preference. Race should not implicate you in criminal activity. Don't use race as a scapegoat for crime. We need to be a community dedicated to action, not accusation.
In appreciation of our diversity and growth,
Tanya T. Greenwood
Mary K. VanZeipel
Frances Y. Nagashima
Wood River Valley
