To the editor:

Hilda Enoch asks in her letter to the editor (Feb. 21, “No stigma”) why Mr. Hemphill and Mr. Zacharias “feel that their voices should count for more” than other voices regarding local homeless issues.

Judging by the quantity of Ms. Enoch’s letters published by the Journal-World and her confidence in her own opinions displayed in those letters, one may wonder if she is perhaps trying to silence opposing viewpoints.

What in the quoted words of Mr. Hemphill or Mr. Zacharias indicate they believe their words count more than anyone else’s? I don’t see it.

However, as community members who have to deal daily with homeless individuals in their neighborhood and business, maybe their voices should carry more weight than the voices of those who attend meetings but enjoy life in homes or businesses far from downtown.

After all, downtown residents’ and merchants’ perceptions of homeless behaviors are likely more informed due to frequency of observation and interaction, so are therefore possibly more accurate. Does it not follow that accurate testimony leads to valid conclusions, from which the city can make fair decisions that respect the rights of everyone, homeless or not?

Shouldn’t lofty expressions of compassion, albeit heartfelt, be tempered with facts?

Lawrence is a vibrant community encompassing a wide variety of opinions with a right to be heard. Ms. Enoch might consider that fact, before further trying to dictate policy on city actions, newspaper coverage (March 20, “Front page news?”), etc.

Barbara Hicks,

Lawrence