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Guest editorial | Standing against hate in Gig Harbor

Gig Harbor is a beautiful community, but that does not mean that it’s immune to ugly and hateful behavior. Recent events in our community bring this home. Vandalism of a menorah in Uptown, and racial taunts and slurs at local events show us that Gig Harbor is not immune.

We, two of your local elected officials who care a great deal about our community, are standing up today to say: ENOUGH. WE ARE BETTER THAN THIS.

Gig Harbor Mayor Mary Barber, left, and Pierce County Councilmember Robyn Denson.

Unfortunately, prejudice, discrimination and intolerance are part of daily life for too many Americans. The most common targets of hate crimes in the United States are African Americans, Jewish people and members of the LGBTQI+ community. However, people are treated badly based not only on race, religion, and sexual orientation or gender identity, but also because of characteristics like age, weight, gender and income level. Intolerance and hate are everyone’s business.

We value the timeless lessons learned from our role models, whether they were parents, teachers, faith community leaders, coaches, choir directors, babysitters, or neighbors:

• Treat others as you wish to be treated.
• Respect others, even if their opinions differ.
• Listen, because understanding begins with hearing.

These values remind us that words and actions matter. Our community thrives on kindness, inclusion, and mutual respect. Hate has no place here. Or anywhere. It’s not good for our children, for our economy, or for our environment. We ask everyone to think before they act and to consider the impact of their words. This is especially true for adults as we should be modeling good and kind behavior for our children.

In this digital age, it’s particularly easy to write and post without adequate reflection. We need to remember that words and actions have different meanings for various groups. Words expressed in the digital world have the same impact as those spoken face to face. So, we challenge everyone to pause and ask:

• Would I want my family member to be treated or spoken to this way?
• Are my words building understanding or sowing division?
• Could I respond with kindness instead?

We believe the majority of our community is not okay with hatefulness and intolerance. We ask that if you witness intolerance, or something that makes you uncomfortable, please speak up. Silence allows hate to grow, but a thoughtful word can foster change. Let’s protect one another and show tolerance and love. Disagreement doesn’t require disrespect. Let’s slow down, listen, and engage with open minds and hearts.

Together, we can keep Gig Harbor a welcoming, vibrant, and inclusive community. Let’s show through our words and actions that here in Gig Harbor, kindness and respect are paramount values that we live every day.

Sincerely,

Mary Barber, Mayor, City of Gig Harbor

Robyn Denson, District 7 Councilmember, Pierce County