To the editor:

A recent letter to the editor demonstrated the degree to which clinging to the status quo can narrow and distort one’s view of the world. Thus, racism — even unintentional racism — not only does not exist here but is a concept promoted by those who wish to destroy America. People who want fair treatment for minority groups do not simply disagree with the writer; they are enemies of our country, power hungry politicians or “useful idiots” (I plead guilty to the last category). Polls and the voting record indicate the group with the strongest antipathy to the idea of racism in America are Old White Guys.

As an OWG myself, I am all too aware that our numbers are decreasing. We are being replaced by younger people who may not think the same and may well be people of color. The American electorate is changing and will be fairly different just a few years from now despite the attempts to suppress voting. The challenge is to find a way to operate our society so that all citizens have equal access to a living wage, a good education and good health care, equal protection before the law and an equal sense of participation in our democracy.

Doing this should not mean loss of jobs, income or self-esteem for others. Surely we can make this country better for everyone. Making life more secure and more successful for millions will provide a positive stimulus for our society and our economy; all will benefit.

Joe Douglas,

Lawrence