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The death of political commentator Charlie Kirk is a tragic and alarming moment for the nation, regardless of one’s political beliefs.
As a former nonpartisan candidate, I worked with people across the ideological spectrum. What I learned is simple: Most individuals, once politics are set aside, are decent and driven by what they believe is right. It’s easy to vilify from a distance, but face-to-face, humanity tends to show through.
I disagreed with many of Kirk’s views. But unlike many in the media, he regularly allowed opposing voices to speak. His events sparked passion — both admiration and protest — but they got young people talking about politics. In an era of disengagement, that’s significant.
No one — left or right — should be targeted for their political speech. Violence is never a justified response to disagreement. To celebrate any person’s death over ideology is to chip away at the core values of a free society.
Today should not be partisan. It should be a moment to reflect on the importance of civil discourse and the dangerous path we take when we allow hatred to replace dialogue.
Cassidy LaCroix
Portland
