The Words We Use

It is disappointing to see what our political dialog has been reduced to on this Martin Luther King Day Weekend. Governor Paul LePage's most recent outburst, telling the Maine branch of the NAACP to "Kiss my butt," is an example of the divisive language that sets us back as a State and a Nation.

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was a brilliant orator who demonstrated the apex of what our political dialog can be. Governor LePage has chosen to pander to the basest in us. His dialog has been simple and rude, and he seeks to justify it by claiming to be plain and direct. Let us spend time in the days ahead remembering all of our past leaders who had the courage to choose a path of reconciliation, respect and honor.

As LePage claimed in his inaugural address, he is the Governor for all of Maine, 100% of us, not just the 40% of the electorate who voted for him. Yet, he has failed to recognize the difference between a special interest and the public interest. His role as governor is to serve the public interest. The NAACP in its fight for equality and justice for all advances the public interest, and for such deserves respect.

I am among the over 60% of Maine’s electorate who did not vote for Governor LePage. But whatever my political bent, I am a proud resident of the State of Maine. I want my Governor to be a leader who exemplifies respect for diversity. It is easy, Governor LePege. Start by thinking before you speak, and when you decide to speak, do so with conviction and honor. The words we use matter.