When will we stand together?

To The Eagle,

I remember walking down the street in my small town and seeing a large group of people gathered in front of our courthouse, holding signs that read “No King.” These signs were a clear expression of their dissatisfaction with how President Trump was running the country, reflecting concerns about leadership and a desire for more democratic governance. While the crowd seemed to be socializing more than actively protesting, their presence and the messages on their signs spoke volumes about the political climate at the time.

As I observed them—sometimes chanting but mostly engaged in conversation—a pickup truck drove past carrying several young men, with guns visible in the back window. They shouted, “We support Trump,” as they passed by, their voices filled with passion. The truck circled back, honking and screaming even louder and much faster the second time. Instead of responding with hostility, the protestors simply waved and clapped as the truck went by.

I smiled to myself, appreciating the fact that both groups—despite their differing views—were able to voice their opinions peacefully. There was no violence or anyone invading another’s space; it was a display of small-town respect for differing perspectives.

Recently in Minnesota, two protestors were shot and killed by ICE agents. The conflicting reactions to the video footage have raised serious concerns. Should people be killed for speaking out? Arrests are one thing—shooting is another. When did this become acceptable?

All of these moments have made me reflect on what it truly means to stand together, especially when the issues at hand are divisive, and the facts themselves seem to shift depending on who is telling the story. It's clear that genuine unity requires not only respecting each other's right to protest and speak out, but also critically examining the narratives we are presented with and standing up for truth and justice, even when it's uncomfortable. Only then can we begin to bridge the gaps that separate us and work toward a future where peaceful disagreement is not just tolerated but valued as an essential part of our democracy.

Elizabeth Rose,

Cathlamet