We need more of this on public display. Less shouting, less cancelling, less intimidation. More listening to & talking with one another, even when we disagree. And continue to disagree.
As we will.
Extremists want to demonize opponents, and de-platform those who think differently instead of allowing all sides to have their say. After which, the citizens will then “vote” with their time, money, and ballot. In political terms, one side will win, and the other lose.
But there will always be another opportunity to persuade and vote your conscience.
That’s how the system works. Do today’s activists want to persuade or overpower?
Constantly demonizing and accusing your opponents (who you probably don’t know) of hate does not a civil society make.
Justice Sotomayor knows the man. And calls him a friend. Though they both have strong ideological commitments, they respect one another enough to listen, talk, and argue about important things. And still care about one another.
That’s their job as jurists and as humans.
That’s civility.
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