Letters to the editor

Racial bias?

To the editor:

There is no doubt we need to raise and address important racial issues within our city government and our community. However, nothing is gained by portraying decisions or comments that are not racially motivated as evidence of racism. In fact, just the opposite – those who supposedly champion the rights of marginalized groups lose badly needed credibility.

And rather than discussing racial issues frankly, many people remain silent in the fear that a misused word or simple difference of opinion may subject them to accusations of racism.

When several council members supported a white candidate (Jane Lindley) to fill a vacant seat rather than the black candidate (Brenda Fantroy-Johnson), they were accused of racial bias by vocal citizens. Councilmember Michael Pollock openly attacked them – and Lindley by association – in a letter to outside elected officials.

However, an impartial examination of the two candidates’ years of community involvement and proven expertise in areas under council consideration – ones in which citizens express ever-increasing concern – would lead most people to understand their preference for Lindley.

Recently the City Council selected a new city manager who is Asian American, born in Korea. Pollock, Mayor Rashamm Nassar and Fantroy-Johnson voted against his selection in favor of a white candidate with less experience.

No one accused these three council members of racism. They simply had a different idea of what our city needed just as those who favored Lindley for council did.

Impugning racial bias where none exists is a dangerous game that must end if we are serious about addressing racism.

Erika Shriner

Bainbridge Island

Carbon law

To the editor:

The April 10, 2021 Bainbridge Island Review’s article, “State OKs cap on carbon emissions,” shows that we are at an important juncture when it comes to passing climate legislation. We no longer have time to monkey around. This is the moment to get bills done that effectively reduce CO2 and do it fairly.

Both the state legislature and the federal House of Representatives have introduced bills that do a lot to get carbon emissions down and do it with concern for low-income families. At the state level, we have the Climate Commitment Act, that “prioritizes the transition to clean energy and requires corporations that contribute to pollution to pay the bill.”

At the federal level, we have the Energy Innovation and Carbon Dividend Act (HR 2307). This bill puts a rising price on dirty fuel at the source, and returns all funds to Americans to offset the impact of rising prices.

Studies show this approach reduces greenhouse gases 30% in the first five years alone. Monthly dividends are “carbon cashback” payments so everyone can afford the transition. The momentum for action is building at various levels of government. Let’s make powerful, urgent legislation happen.

Bobbie Morgan

Bainbridge Island

Our guns

To the editor:

Here is the deal on guns. I own guns. I love guns.

We need universal background checks on all purchases. No new assault weapons.

If you own one, you keep it. That’s it.

PJ McEwan

Bainbridge Island