I am writing this in response to Jay Fleitman’s Sept. 3 column, “Musings on Woodstock.” Maybe if Dr. Fleitman had actually been there, his opinions on it would be justified. He has the audacity to write about something he didn’t experience, yet writes as if he did.
I am sorry that his brother overdosed on drugs that were “a byproduct” of the hippie movement. Look around us! Plenty of drug overdoses and who is to blame? Still blaming the “hippies?” It is unfortunate that his family tragedy has clouded his view of what was really going on during those times.
That generation was involved in speaking out against an illegal war, civil rights, the women’s movement and looking toward creating a peaceful world. My husband and I were both at Woodstock.
It was a gathering of peaceful people who wanted to hear some great music! Yes, the sheer numbers made it a challenging weekend and there was nothing “romantic” about the rain, mud and food shortages. The reason it is long remembered and celebrated is the fact that a huge number of people could be together, peacefully, helping , sharing and enjoying what we had.
Maybe you, Dr. Fleitman, “demeaned” and were “dismissive” of your parents, but, as a child of the ’60s, I didn’t know anyone who felt that way! Yes, we had differing political views about the Vietnam War and materialism, but we appreciated the struggles our parents had and were proud of the life they created for their children — allowing us to have access to education and freedom to think for ourselves!
Dr. Fleitman, I’m glad I didn’t meet you at Woodstock. With your attitude, you would have found little connection with the spirit and energy that prevailed. Your ignorance about those times and experiences makes it clear that you missed the boat!
Ronnie Field
Florence