To the Editor:

I think all those who attended would agree that the Columbus Fabulous 4th was an exemplary family event, and are most grateful for the amazing amount of hard work and planning that went into creating this wonderful 12-hour celebration.

Freedom of speech, as I understand it, mandates that expression of what is offensive to some (or most) should not be suppressed. We have come far from the time when vilifying the president would be considered actionable treason.

Freedom of speech is absolutely vital to our understanding of each other. It allows us to bear witness to all that is positive, selfless and virtuous in our world; and also can expose intolerance, hatefulness and small-mindedness that otherwise might go unnoticed. It can allow us to understand how reactive and violent people’s opinions are, and how desperate their need for attention. The dunking booth controversy calls for a moment to reflect on what this sort of high-pitched ridicule begets and how it is often characterized as the media modus operandi of our enemies of freedom abroad.

The dunking booth offered a valuable teaching moment for parents. Can we ever throw things at people (or their representations) in a good and fun way? (Pillow fights?) Would you throw a ball as hard as you can if that was a picture of grandma you were aiming at? Or your favorite pet? So are we being honest with ourselves when we say it was benign? Are we teaching children to disrespect their elected officials?

Let’s acknowledge that regardless of political affiliation, we are all fallible human beings. No one political party is always right or always wrong; I think there is abundant evidence to support that. Perhaps no need to blame or go out on a limb defending. The Fourth of July Republican Party dunking booth happened, and it has sparked a lot of thoughtful, spirited conversations in a time when public discourse is rare. A good thing.

– Annette Wells, 

Columbus