Misguided to compare this offense to an affair
Regarding “We’re tired of these bedfellows” (Opinion, Nov. 6), someone else will probably say it better — but how dare AJC columnist Kyle Wingfield compare sexual harassment and affairs? One is unsolicited — the other is consensual.
Pam Pluschau, Roswell
Wonder if Cain’s backers ever excoriated Clinton
Whether the recent sexual harassment allegations against Republican presidential candidate Herman Cain are true or not, it strikes me as curious that many right-of-center pundits and politicians have come to his defense and “have his back,” as they say. They blame the attacks on “the liberal media.” His voting supporters, when polled, seemed unaffected by the allegations.
When Bill Clinton, a Democrat, was accused of sexual dalliances with Monica Lewinsky and others, the right wing was livid with moral outrage and wanted his head on a platter.
Is there a double standard here or am I missing something? Larry J. Pett, Atlanta
Seems little has changed since days of Anita Hill
In 1991, after watching the Anita Hill hearings, I (and many other women) wrote to the AJC about our experiences with sexual harassment.
The recent accusations against Herman Cain show how little things have changed. Women are still at the mercy of men who hold power over them. Women remain silent now for the same reasons they always have.
Women who complain lose their jobs and often are not believed. If the accusations are made against a famous man, the woman is accused of seeking publicity and money. Every aspect of her life is under scrutiny.
The women who wrote to the AJC 20 years ago represented all walks of life and age groups. There were common threads in each story. The memories remained vivid and haunting even after many years. Most had remained silent when the sexual harassment happened.
This is a “he said/she said” crime, with the burden of proof on the woman. Many of these men literally hold a woman’s livelihood in their hands. They are serial abusers.
The person who holds the highest office in the land will influence legislation concerning women’s lives. With more than one woman alleging inappropriate sexual behavior by Cain, the allegations deserve the same scrutiny these women will have to endure.
Sheri Frech, Jasper
More revenue ... and more pain and suffering
I wonder if those people who voted in favor of Sunday alcohol sales because it would “increase revenue” realize this will happen only if people consume more alcohol — and not simply because it is available for sale on one more day.
We certainly do need more alcohol consumption. Just think: We could have more DUIs, more crime, more physical abuse and more health issues. Any increased revenue will be more than offset by human losses.
Conrad Whitfield, Sandy Springs
One good lecture deserves another
I came to the Atlanta area in November 2000. One Sunday, I ran up to the nearest grocery store to buy some noodles. I decided to get a bottle of wine to go with dinner.
When I got to the checkout counter, I was given a lecture about alcohol sales in Georgia. That was one of my introductions to Atlanta. Now, 11 years later, that throwback to Bible Belt hegemony is being corrected.
I might even go back to the same store just to buy a bottle of wine — and to give the cashier a lecture.
A. B. Murphy, Marietta
Decades of greatness destroyed in an instant
There’s a saying that it takes a lifetime to build a reputation and only a second to destroy it. We watched this happen to Joe Paterno.
Paterno did what was legally correct — but he was morally wrong in not following up and making sure that proper actions were taken. He allowed a terrible incident to be swept under the rug, and abusive behavior went on for years.
Paterno’s decision cost him his reputation and tarnished the football program he built — one that set the standard for all of college football. As a Paterno admirer, I want to say, “Say it ain’t so Joe” — but it is, and Happy Valley’s not so happy anymore.
Jerry Schwartz, Alpharetta
Debates, negotiations showcase our freedom
You don’t speak out against dictators (for they are never at fault), but in America we can. Freedom of speech, democratic debate and parties that represent the republic’s will are the core examples of a democracy. Government is not broken when representatives fight for the will of their constituents.
Negotiations concerning a national budget are the greatest example of how a country represents a body (rather than an individual). When some in government claim one man should overrule the representative body to decide for himself an outcome, America will no longer exist as a free republic.
Others criticize the way America squabbles and debates every issue. Dictatorial governments pass bills with ease and efficiency, for they require little to no representation. As history proves, this form of single-minded efficiency to create policy caused the most destructive wars known to mankind.
Mike Callahan, Richmond Hill
Response to “Our public schools not failing.” Opinion, Nov. 6
Jay Bookman’s piece was a refreshing change from the usual doom and gloom emanating from those on both sides of today’s issues. While this information may not produce headlines as exciting as do tales of woe, it is good to know that despite common perception some things we invest our money in can go well and some things done by public employees can actually help others. So, while this information may not change peoples’ core beliefs or prejudices, it may add a bit of good news to those of us who fight cynicism every day.
Eric Sandberg, Atlanta
