Why all the hate? I am a Vietnam veteran who served (volunteered) for my country. I raised a family the best way I could. I respect all people’s rights and I served to preserve those rights. I did not teach my children or grandchildren about hate, race or war.

Today I see friends spewing hatred all over social media and making vial statements about fellow humans all in the name of the “movement” or whatever they call it. They are teachers, former town volunteers and people in respectable and influential positions who are marching for hate all over the country. They carry signs, take knees, yell profanities, and spew hatred all because they have the right. I see politicians doing the same.

I no longer watch the late shows because the hosts currently use it for spewing their hatred. I am embarrassed by our current U.S. senators and their hate.

I am not a racist, and I don’t hate immigrants. I do believe in the law and I do believe that this country was based on principles and laws that were intended to be fair and just, for all people, and most of all to protect the American people.

Steve Poole

Salem