Since reading of the protest and attempt to blockade the entrance to the L3Harris facility on Aug. 20, I had been trying to figure out how shutting down this defense contractor fosters peace in the world. Surely no one in their right mind other than power-hungry authoritarian governments believe war is the answer. However, as there is no short supply of such governments in our world — Russia, North Korea, Iran, and China come to mind, war is still an ever-present reality. Also, surely, no one in their right mind thinks that being unprepared for the possibility of war makes sense.
Then I read the excellent guest column by Marc Warner, “L3Harris protests are off-base and irresponsible” [Gazette, Sept. 5]. He left no stone unturned in his thoughtful and thorough critique of such protests and the politicians who have piled on. Well done, Mr. Warner!
But much as I think the protesters are grievously misguided, I can’t fault their wish for a peaceful world. It’s just that there are far better ways to work toward that goal. For one how about working to end the cold civil war raging here in the good old USA? Join Braver Angels’ local alliance, one of many groups, doing this good work.
For another, how about raising up a generation schooled in the skills of conflict resolution? As an elementary school counselor before retiring, I know such effective curricula exist. It is ingrained in Center for Responsive Schools’ materials. See to it that your school system implements such curricula.
I’ll end with a condensed version of the quote by Chinese philosopher Lao Tze that speaks to how peace in the world is gained. Peace in the world? First peace in the nations. Peace in the nations? First peace in the cities. Peace in the cities? First peace in the neighborhoods. Peace in the neighborhoods? First peace in the families. Peace in the families? Peace in the heart. Let’s start with our hearts and our communities — here’s where we all truly have a real opportunity to work for peace and see it grow.
Linda M. Clark
Easthampton