Observer Forum: Letters to the editor 03.03.15
The transgender bathroom solution
Regarding the burning question of which public restrooms transgender people should be permitted to use, I suggest there is a solution that protects everyone’s right to privacy, and in fact has been available all along.
There are many places which have “family” restrooms available, which either gender may use in absolute privacy, and many places that have restrooms which are one-person rooms for either gender. My guess is that this is the solution transgender people have always sought.
Janet Taylor
Lincolnton
In response to “Should city pass LGBT protections?” (March 1 Viewpoint):
City ordinance solves a nonexistent problem
As a Libertarian I support LGBT rights, but Scott Bishop’s defense of Charlotte’s LGBT ordinance is a classic case of supporting a need that doesn’t exist, and shows precisely why an ordinance is unnecessary.
He correctly states that most people “probably wouldn’t recognize [transgender persons] if they saw them.” In the next paragraph, he points out that transgender people currently have access to whichever restroom they choose, and the public is none the wiser. So, is it unreasonable to ask, “Why do we need another ordinance to solve a problem that admittedly does not exist?”
John Larrabee
Charlotte
In response to “UNC board OKs closure of 3 centers” (Feb. 28):
Another way to honor Dean Smith’s progressive legacy
If you do not share the far right vision of our current legislature or you disagree with the direction the current Board of Governors is taking our university system, use your voice AND your vote.
Honor Bill Friday and the memory of Dean Smith by urging our leaders to rethink the direction they are taking this state. Dean Smith spoke out for causes of social justice. What better way to honor his legacy than to use your voice to do the same?
Candy Furr
Charlotte
UNC centers flap shows big government mentality
It dawned on me while reading about the UNC closures that “we” now associate education with government: If it is not provided, it is non-existent.
It has always been true that those who want education will get educated because of their personal drive for knowledge and understanding. If it is important to you, you will find a source. If not? You will gripe about someone not providing it to you.
Dick Brolin
Cornelius
Controversy follows professor at center of UNC troubles
Please consider the source of the controversy at UNC Chapel Hill. Prior to becoming director of the Poverty Center, Gene Nichol was forced to resign as president at The College of William & Mary.
Perhaps more credence should be given to the board’s findings that Mr. Nichol’s leadership of the center was long on symbolism but short on results.
Sue Ruebens
Charlotte
Obama’s orders no different from earlier presidents
With all of the brouhaha surrounding President Obama’s executive orders regarding immigration, one would think he is a lawless president.
Many examples of executive orders exist, ranging from national forests created by Theodore Roosevelt to FDR’s order creating internment camps during World War II. All of us seem to have very selective memories when it suits our purposes.
Wes McLeod
Charlotte
Republicans taking country down disastrous path
Since the days of Nixon and Reagan, the Republicans have seemed slightly sleazy and dishonest, as have the Democrats to some extent.
But I do not remember the left-leaning politicians shutting down government, damaging our nation’s credit rating, or any of the ridiculous stunts the radical right has pulled in recent years.
Maybe I am getting old and forgetful, but this kind of politics is new to me. And, above all else, it is very dangerous to this country.
William Reaves
Charlotte
This story was originally published March 2, 2015 at 5:42 PM with the headline "Observer Forum: Letters to the editor 03.03.15."