Protesters should not be muted

LeNie Adolphson
Having my say

There is a critical issue in America today and that it seems to revolve around patriotism as it relates to debate and criticisms.

Moreover, what is bashing and what are legitimate criticisms? Apparently, bashing is subjective. There is an element to the entire issue that people who despise disparagement of America never discuss, and that is why is it perfectly acceptable to criticize everyone in your private and public life, yet complaining about the country is off limits. Most parents love their children, and if their children are not behaving or having problems parents are considered derelict in their responsibility if they fail to correct their child. Some psychologists and counselors have even advised parents to use "tough love" to deal with rebellious and out-of-control teenagers. Obviously, in the midst of these corrective actions there is a great deal of discussion regarding the problems. A troubled youth might even label these discussions "bashing."

Moreover, married couples and other couples are told in marriage counseling to explain the reasons they are having problems. Generally, these discussions turn into each person going into great detail about the issues that have led to counseling. There are times when, in the course of counseling, issues are raised that are painful. However, these problems must be mentioned. It is quite helpful that the counselor understand the problems prior to helping the couple. Some of these couples might view the complaints as bashing. Usually they love each other, or they would not seek help to salvage their relationship. Additionally, even couples that are not in counseling have complaints and voice them to his or her partner. Yet they love each other.

Additionally, we criticize our family members, our professors on evaluations, our co-workers, pastor, neighbors, even our pets and that is totally acceptable.

Generally, every employee gets a job evaluation where one's strengths and weaknesses are assessed. The employer does not give a negative evaluation because of hatred for the employee. Usually, if there are improvements that are needed, they are cited to help the employee improve performance at work.

However, the self-proclaimed lovers of America apparently have decided if one is extremely vociferous in protesting the policies of America, you should pull up stakes and leave. Otherwise, shut your mouth. Moreover, if foreigners have the temerity to tell Americans why they are seen in a negative light abroad, they [the foreigners] are labeled as ungrateful. I think it is important to try to understand why America is hated in many countries. It is wrong to blame the messenger for stating his or her opinion as to the causes of the revulsion toward America abroad.

I love America. I appreciate the freedoms I have here. However, that does not mean those who are upset with the policies of the government should be muted. I will state unequivocally that I disagree with many of the policies of the current administration. I am totally opposed to the war. I know this country has turned a blind eye to atrocities against many ethnic groups in the past. I know the country has appeased tyrants and then attacked them when it was no longer convenient.

Love of country is not blind allegiance. I would argue that the greatness of America is that we live in a country that allows free, lively and contentious debate. The esteemed professor Jonathan Wiesen is teaching History 444, the Holocaust class. In Nazi Germany, dissent against the government could and would cost you your life. We must all work, strive and pray that we will never allow any person or government to stifle or edit free and lively expression. For once that occurs, we inch ever so slowly to despotism and tyranny.

Having my say appears every Tuesday. LeNie is a senior in history. Her views do not necessarily reflect those of the Daily Egyptian.

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