We need more respectful dialogue

I feel the need to respond to Tony Novak’s May 18 Fence Post letter regarding the Federal Reserve. I am by no means an expert on the economy, and I don’t fully understand the role of the Federal Reserve, but I completely agree with Mr. Novak’s concern that small business is being “wiped out by the financial heavyweights.”

I am, however, deeply disturbed by Mr. Novak’s reference to the Federal Reserve as a “Zionist operation.” Perhaps I am especially sensitive to this phrase because my son is currently studying the Holocaust, and our family has been discussing this horrible time in human history and what led up to it.

Mr. Novak claims to want to encourage intelligent consideration of our economic woes but then throws out this divisive, inflammatory and even dangerous claim with no explanation. These are indeed difficult times, and societies all over the world are facing economic hardship. Anger and fear seem to be the predominant emotions, but we must not let them rule our minds. What we need now more than ever is engaged, informed citizens who are willing to vote on their principles, hold their elected officials accountable, and yes, protest peacefully when they are so moved. What we do not need are people looking to incite division and fear.

Janet McDonnell

Arlington Heights