Jennifer Graham wrote an excellent article on cancel culture in Sunday’s Deseret News (“Cancel culture is entering a dangerous new phase. But there is a key to getting out,” Aug. 22). It was refreshing to see someone daring to tackle this sensitive yet destructive attitude in society. I took to heart her point made about how dangerous cancellation of ideas, beliefs and people is, as she pled for us to be more reflective.
It is interesting that Graham quoted Michelle Obama from the Democratic National Convention. In past years, I have found her outspoken comments to be “do as I say, not as I do.” Mrs. Obama’s seemingly passionate quote, “the ability to walk in someone else’s shoes; the recognition that someone else’s experience has value, too,” is merely a rewording of the old saying: “Don’t judge another until you have walked in his shoes.” Does she follow her own counsel?
I’ve watched Mrs. Obama “walk in her shoes” of criticism, self-righteousness and arrogance. Perhaps she should have had a “play nice” talk before the convention so speakers would have taken the high road to help make her point. Instead, demeaning words and bashing of President Trump were all I heard. Did anyone stop to think what it has been like to walk in his shoes or to value his service? It was the same chant to cancel his presidency. I was hopeful Graham might provide a turning point for good, but sadly I concluded: I can cancel you, but you dare not cancel me. I will demand your apology because I judge you are misguided. Isn’t it still a one-sided issue?
Charlotte McDonald
Millcreek