Freedom had no voice on day of Winslow parade

Friday, July 15, 2005

At every level of our government and society, there are signs that some folks would ignore American freedoms for the sake of power or emotional comfort.

Our president promotes the extension of the so-called Patriot Act, a law that exposes citizens and noncitizens alike to surveillance, search and even seizure without probable cause or due process.

Maine's governor signs an agreement with the Maine State Employees Association and the Service Employees International Union that requires state employees to join, pay a service fee to the union or be terminated. No longer can a taxpayer work for this state government without first paying a union to bargain for higher cost in government.

The Fourth of July celebration committee in the little river town of Winslow decides to deny a place in its parade to a float for fear that it will offend those who fought or are fighting to protect freedom because the group suggests American dollars could do more good if spent on peace than on war.

Innocent until proven guilty, due process, right of association and freedom of speech are fundamental concepts, critical to keeping our country free. We citizens must be diligent and watchful in guarding our constitutional freedoms.

The Winslow parade committee should admit it was wrong and move on. It should be thankful that all involved showed peaceful restraint in the face of its breach of good sense. The day was largely a wonderful tribute to American spirit, but freedom had no voice that day.

Harvey Boatman

Vassalboro