OPINION:
This country lies in a terribly precarious position. I am constantly on edge, terrified of the hate crimes that could result from the President-elect Trump’s dangerous rhetoric. We know from history that groups of people united by hatred can do awful things. Imagine what could happen when these groups believe that they have a president who supports their prejudices.
Donald Trump owes this nation more than an apology. It is his responsibility to put out the fire that he has ignited in white supremacists and other intolerant groups. It is his job to speak directly to extreme factions of supporters and let them know that discrimination and violence will be prosecuted to the highest degree. And not just physical acts of violence, but words, too. I have already heard of way too many cases of white men getting bold and throwing racial terms around like confetti.
It is now your job, Mr. Trump, to be a proponent of equality and justice. If you truly want to unite the country, you need to demonstrate you have what it takes to represent all Americans. We just need to know that you understand, Mr. Trump, that as our president it is your job to preserve and protect all Americans — even those whom you have so crudely offended. A simple apology won’t fix everything, but it would be a good start.
KATIE RICHMOND
Baraboo, Wisc.
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