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Letter: Jan. 6 was a wakeup call about how fragile yet vital democracy is

FILE - In this Jan. 6, 2021, file photo, police stand guard after holding off Trump supporters who tried to break through a police barrier at the Capitol in Washington. As federal officials grapple with how to confront the national security threat from domestic extremists after the deadly siege of the U.S. Capitol, civil rights groups and communities of color are watching warily for any moves to expand law enforcement power or authority. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez, File)

On a personal note: For the last four years I’ve been listening to my father, who was in the military and a die-hard Republican, and my mother, who is a strongly opinionated liberal Democrat, incessantly argue and disagree about their opinions on Trump. However, after the events of Jan. 6, they both were in complete agreement. The events of that day created an opportunity to clearly see the impact of four years under his administration.

Although I’m not old enough to vote, bearing witness to the impact of Trump’s administration has left me with a clear idea of what democracy is and isn’t. The divide between our country has never been wider. It’s hard to imagine ever being able to bridge that gap. Yet, I remain hopeful.

If there was any upside to Jan. 6, it would be the fact that the shock has actually drawn us closer together. Making us realize that this country needs democracy in order to function. I realize how fragile yet vital democracy is. Only when faced with the prospect of losing it can we, as a nation save it.

Molly Bearnson, Park City

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