The political climate created by today’s state and federal politicians is creating an increasingly uncomfortable and menacing feeling for Utahns. The targeting and labeling of vulnerable populations as undesirable, the restrictions and mandates on education, the fear mongering and blatant lying, are all political tactics historians, or anyone familiar with 20th century history, recognize easily. Utahns should be aware and concerned.
The targeting and vilification of vulnerable communities is a step down a dangerous path.
When the most vulnerable of our society are in danger, we all are. The treatment of our most vulnerable shows who we are. Uplifting vulnerable groups through policy should be the norm, it should be expected. The targeted and purposeful restrictions on education continue down that path. A populace that can read and think for itself is critical to a democratic society. Utahns, and their elected officials, should be pushing for increased access and funding for education. By educating people we allow them access to many more opportunities which enriches all of us. A safe, healthy and educated society benefits everyone.
We, as Utahns and Americans, can be better than this. We are better than this. This is the time for those of us with any level of privilege, security, power, safety nets — whatever you want to call them — to stand up for others. We should push back against legislation, action and rhetoric that targets those of us who cannot stand up for themselves. Resistance is vital. We all want our voices heard, our needs met, and our problems solved. Working together is the best way to achieve that. Abandoning those who may not have the same ability to demand, or even ask for, those things is inhumane. Policies are something to be argued about. Humanity and human dignity are not.
Jessica Barker, Price
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