A Proper Dialogue

With election year 2008 ahead, it must be suggested politicos seek a level of dialogue based on verifiable facts and simple courtesy. On this basis we may be spared from irrationally flawed comparisons as drawn between political parties and heinous historic regimes. I believe it is appropriate to advance the concept that such speech no longer belongs in our language as Americans. The fact that such words appear at all is disconcerting unless noted for the viscerally prejudicial level of ignorance and bigotry entailed in their comparative use.

I fully believe in the highest level of political discourse and debate. It is in this manner only that our democratic republic is possible. I acknowledge that some historic events may be subject to question; however, there are fundamental differences between democratic beliefs and the totalitarian regime of Adolf Hitler. By “totalitarian regime” is referenced a national population mobilized to support state sponsored ideologies intolerant of opinions not directed toward state goals. It may be noted that such regimes were sustained by single party control, control of business, repression of labor unions, restrictions on education, religious beliefs, religious practices, free discussion and abusive privacy violations by state sponsored surveillance.

I suggest totalitarianism is inherently abhorrent to our beliefs as Americans. I am proud that Democratic ideals include recognizing the innate dignity of each person, efforts to care for the poor and sick, a respectful tolerance of considered opinions, support of business, labor unions, education for all, religious freedoms and the protection of individual privacy.

The use of abjectly prejudicial terms that entail disdainful historic references reveals a level of bigotry that should be as much a source for concern as Islamic terrorists. Perhaps the most important part of our dialogue as Americans is to begin with the very strongest presumption that each citizen of our country is a vital part of our society. We must be compelled to seek and reach the highest level of debate critical to our celebration of the freedoms we hold dear. We must start with the belief that each person, regardless of political party affiliation, if any, holds their individual freedoms and love of country at the very heart of their patriotic beliefs. On this basis, we can invite our American dialogue to begin again.

John F. Kostyo, Proud American and Democrat