Civility, Truth, Integrity

This letter to the editor, by Joyce Santo, appeared in the Hudson Star Observer on July 10, 2025.

I’ve been encouraged by the variety of letters to the editor that promoted civility, truth and integrity in the June 26 edition of the HSO.

For example, Stacy K Johnson, called out U.S. Congressman Derrick Van Orden for his inappropriate, undignified and inflammatory use of rhetoric (“clown” and “stupid”) aimed at Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz. I suppose I should not be surprised by Van Orden’s comments, as the head of his party models the use of such language aimed at anyone who disagrees with him. A question comes to mind: Is this what will make America great?

Another letter by Laurie Harmon compared Members of Congress to her high school students who failed to do their homework. Unlike high school students, where the consequence might be a failing grade, the consequence of Congress not doing its homework makes for devastating effects on millions of Americans. Is this what will make America great?

A third letter, by Dan Bushman, points out the lack of decency and respect conveyed by people who inaccurately and unapologetically spread misinformation and call it their First Amendment right. Is this what will make America great?

By contrast, my 10-year-old grandson was called to task by his teacher for less-thanstellar behavior on a recent class field trip. When his parents talked with him about the incident, he fessed up, owned his behavior and apologized to his classmate and teacher. This example is not unique. Everyday, in families and schools across the country, children are learning how their behavior impacts others, how to take responsibility for their actions and what it means to be a contributing member of a community.

Our Members of Congress and our President, as well as many adults in America, need to learn the same lesson.