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Letter: ‘We progress by discussing our disagreements, not by shutting discussions down’

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Why is it acceptable to criticize people who voice their opinions? I suggest that it is not.

Opinions can be argued with, but not the right to express them. I’ve always puzzled over the lack of logic in the suggestion that people who have complaints should go live somewhere else. We progress by discussing our disagreements, not by shutting discussions down.

A recent letter told those who are unhappy with deer damaging their gardens to quit complaining and go live somewhere else. The fact of speaking up was criticized. Another recent letter tells those who speak up about public art they dislike to quit complaining and go live somewhere else. Again, speaking up was criticized. Not only were those letters mean spirited, they are damaging to our community.

Caring enough to write to a local newspaper is to be commended, not discouraged. Arguing about ideas is the lifeblood of society and democracy and it must be embraced. We may passionately disagree about what makes our community better, but the discussion is very, very important.

Please, if you don’t like it here, speak up.

Ann Tiplady

Oak Bay