Let’s end the hatred, mistreatment of others | GUEST OP

BY MARVIN ECKFELDT/For the Kent Reporter

I experienced something three weeks ago that I had not heard in the 49 years I have lived in Kent.

As a member of the new city of Kent Cultural Communities board, I listened for over an hour to the fear and apprehension of my Kent neighbors and fellow citizens.

A climate of permission – because of our recent national political rhetoric – has unleashed attacks of anger and hatred toward some members of our community. Children are telling school children that the president-elect will send them and their parents back home. A Muslim family received a crude flyer telling them to discard their cultural dress or go back to their old country. Workers are not sure about their employment. “The other” is now suspect.

We need to make it clear that there is absolutely no room in our community for this. Absolutely. This is no way to treat our neighbors and community members. One of the five goals for the city of Kent is to be an “inclusive community: embrace the power of our diversity by encouraging community participation and creating a strong sense of belonging.”

This is who we say we are, who we want to be. Absolutely.

Here are some ways we can do this:

Get to know those in your neighborhood who are different from you. Work at understanding their unique cultural and religious heritage. Listen to their story of coming to Kent and their hopes for their children. Share your experience in Kent and offer to help them feel at home. If you learn someone is being harassed or targeted, call 911. Our Kent Police stand ready to respond.

If you and I treat others – our neighbors – as we would want to be treated, Kent will be a welcoming, safe and livable place for all. Absolutely.

Marvin Eckfeldt is a retired minister and former chair of the Kent Human Services Commission. He serves on the city of Kent Cultural Communities board.