It requires action to stop hate

Donald Trump has pulled back the curtains on a deep divide in this country. Through his words, deeds, actions and social media posts he has exposed a hatred of others that had lied dormant in our country. An anger, a contempt for others, be it based on one’s race, sex, ethnicity, nationality, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, nationality and political affiliation, to name a few.

So how does one counter hatred? Act — do something. Evidenced by the massive turnout for the “No Kings” protest marches.

Speak up. Hate must be exposed and denounced. Whether your political leanings are conservative, liberal or moderate doesn’t matter. One voice can lead to a chorus, to a crescendo to a deafening roar. Pressure leaders. This tactic has been taking hold as constituents who attend their representative town halls have voiced their displeasure and concerns, much to the effect of numerous representatives now declining to hold these meetings for fear of being called out and facing the truth.

Elections do have consequences, but we cannot wait until the 2026 midterms and hope that our votes can and will make a difference. Take a page from the Woman’s Suffragette Movement from the 1920s — it was successful due to skillful organization, mobilization and activism. Plus, it effectively utilized modern publicity and outreach methods.

There is no time like the present.

Hate is anger. Mark Twain said it best when he said: “Anger is an acid that can do more harm to the vessel in which it is stored than to anything on which it is poured.”

Wayne Bartosik

Wheaton