Freedom in
jeopardy
It is deeply ironic that “Moms for Liberty” is all about restricting and rejecting science, learning and knowledge (“Trump, crossing paths with DeSantis, tries to outflank him,” Tribune-Herald, July 1).
Their efforts to ban books and limit or eliminate discussion about race and LGBTQ+ communities are the tactics of dictators throughout history.
One their worst efforts was fighting COVID-19 safety measures in schools, showing their disregard for science and children’s health, and their zeal in pushing ultra-conservative, far-right politics and policies.
If you don’t like what’s happening in America right now, economically, politically and/or socially, just think about what these extremist restrictions and bans, among many others, would really mean to your life on a day-to-day basis. Your life would not be your own.
I thought America was foremost about freedom, but clearly that it is now in serious doubt thanks to organizations like “Moms for Liberty” and the U.S. Supreme Court.
Karen Cooper
Hilo
It’s not cops’ fault
In view of the letter to the editor by William James (“Stop the stealing”) in the July 11 Tribune-Herald, I have to correct you on something mentioned.
You mention that the Hawaii Police Department is responsible for letting criminals out by not being too strict on them for crimes they committed. This doesn’t make sense. Police officers enforce the law. They have nothing to do with the criminals being released or let go by the courts.
You are correct on the fact that it is the judges, and many times prosecutors, who are too weak and are letting these criminals go.
As an example, letting a multiple criminal offender go on probation instead of time served, and the prosecutors office agreeing to these terms.
I’m tired of hearing people blame the police when not knowing the facts. I would suggest that anyone interested in seeing firsthand what I just mentioned to please take a seat in court and see the circus unfold.
Vern Ferreira
Hilo
