Teaching about cultural and religious differences, similarities fosters peace

Teaching about cultural and religious differences, similarities fosters peace
EDITOR:
I am writing with concerns about the reactions of those around us to the recent terrorist strikes at Americans. We are seeing in our own communities a violent backlash of anger towards those of Arab or Mideastern descent, and we are hearing more discontent from adults and children who are becoming increasingly fearful of our neighbors.
It is the ignorance and fear of the differences between us that has led to the development of the terrorist mindset. We have observed this in our own neighborhoods and communities in many ways over many years, with painful results. We need to be more mindful of our need as a community to educate our children about different cultures and the variety of religious beliefs.
Our grade schools should introduce information about world religions to students as a means of teaching acceptance. It seems obvious to me that doing so would teach tolerance of cultural and ideological differences. It would identify similarities and strengths of our common ground. In addition, it would expand awareness and understanding of not only others, but of ourselves. And by becoming more aware, it would provide an early interest and awareness before fears become entrenched. Teaching world religions would ultimately promote world peace.
Differences in individual groups are realities, but similarities are also very real. Both differences and similarities can be considered strengths. Personal growth is based on expanded knowledge and exploration of ideas and peoples in our world. We can't meet at a common table to negotiate, if we fear each other. Acceptance is a choice. Tolerance is a necessity.
Others may say that multicultural education will only enhance feelings of being atypical or different. However, it is fear, not knowledge that fosters negativity. The more our children know about each other, the less they will fear.
JENNIFER CRAWFORD
Leetonia
Americans must not turn their backs on suffering
EDITOR:
I'd like to comment on a recent letter which says that Americans should help Americans, not Afghans. The writer raised some very valid points in her letter. It's terrible that considering how prosperous our country is, there are so many & quot;injustices & quot; with our own citizens. But let's think about this for a moment.
Are our children going to bed with bloated stomachs due to malnutrition? Are they living in rubble caused by internal and external military/terrorist conflicts? Are they being forced to sacrifice their lives for their countries at a too-young age? Are they allowed to die of illnesses that our children can go to the doctor or a free clinic and be vaccinated against? Are mothers forced to decide which child should get the few morsels of food that's been allotted to them?
The answer is -- I think not.
Unfortunately, these conditions are prevalent throughout the world.
I agree that serious social changes must be made in our country. But does this mean that we must turn our backs on others whose suffering far outweighs the relatively low percentage of American citizens who are doing without? This is the most important question of all.
JOYCE SEYMOUR
Girard
Beware the enemy within
EDITOR:
Could America's enemy be one of our own? The enemy within.
Right now Americans are doggedly focused on Osama Bin Laden, as public enemy No. 1 for the Sept. 11 attack on the World Trade Center and recently considered as a possible suspect in mailing anthrax-laced letters.
But, I would put this nation on notice that before bin Laden, there were the Randy Weavers and Tim McVeighs and Ted Kazinskys (the Unabomber) who terrorized the country by their violent exploits. We should remember the violent S.L.A. and the anti-abortionists who use violent means -- even murder -- to further their cause.
Other people who harbor the same view as those mentioned could very well be connected to these anthrax attacks. Since everyone is focusing on bin Laden, they have cover to further their anti-government work of destruction. We never found out who was responsible for the bombing of Centennial Park in Atlanta, Ga., in 1996. America has a lot of enemies within.
CHARLES F. ELLIS
Youngstown