Editor, The Smithfield Times:

Charles Bryan says in his “Rid public square of Confederacy“ letter (Sept. 9) that it is offensive and appalling when non-minorities take it upon their exclusive idea of self to deceptively explain other ethnic groups’ motives, intent and endeavors; then he derogatorily uses the word “privileged” six times in his letter.

Mr. Bryan says privileged antagonists are trying to create bogus issues to promote their supremacist agenda. An antagonist actively opposes or is hostile to someone or something. I bear no hostility toward anyone, even someone who might wrongfully label me a “privileged antagonist” based upon their exclusive idea of self to explain my motives, intent and endeavors.

While not terrorists, the painful truth is many Black Live Matter activists are real antagonists with a propensity for violence, overshadowing a legitimate reform message.

One of three BLM co-founders, Patrisse Cullors, said she and co-founder Alicia Garza are “trained Marxists.” In “The Communist Manifesto,” Karl Marx said, “Their ends can be attained only by the forcible overthrow of all existing social conditions.”

The president of Greater New York BLM, Hawk Newsome, said if change doesn’t happen, “we will burn down this system.”

BLM recently marched through a Seattle neighborhood demanding homeowners give up their property because “we’re coming for it. Reparation time.”

BLM has looted and burned down innocent businesses in numerous cities, causing millions of dollars in property damage, and lost income. Chicago BLM organizer Ariel Atkins supported this looting as “reparations.” BLM harangued, harassed, and humiliated diners in Washington, D.C., and Pittsburgh.

BLM even tried to attack U.S. Sen. Rand Paul. “They were shouting threats to us, to kill us, to hurt us,” he said.

I understand why some want Confederate statues removed. However, one form of hatred should never replace another.

 

Joe Naneville

Windsor