Treat others how you would want to be treated
“ How will Gavin Newsom’s order to sweep homeless encampments change Stanislaus County? ” (modbee.com, July 26)
I vehemently denounce the recent Supreme Court ruling in favor of Grants Pass, Oregon, which has banned “public camping” within city limits. This approach fails to address the issue, and may even exacerbate it. The real solution lies in providing affordable housing, supportive services and a living wage that allows individuals to live with dignity. Additionally, better mental health support and drug addiction programs are crucial.
Restorative interventions have consistently proven to be more effective than punitive measures.
Homelessness should not be treated as a crime, but indifference toward the suffering of others is, indeed, sinful. We must recognize and uphold the inherent dignity of every human being, regardless of their life situation. We must also challenge the stigma associated with homelessness, as it can lead to social exclusion, marginalization and the denial of fundamental human rights and opportunities.
The fundamental question is: If we or our loved ones were to experience homelessness, how would we desire to be treated? Moreover, what policies would we earnestly advocate for in such circumstances? Pope Francis states: “Take care of brothers and sisters who are weaker ... the elderly, the sick, the hungry, the homeless and strangers, because we will be judged on this.”
Misael Avila
Associate pastor, Sacred Heart Catholic Church
Turlock
Opinion
A message to anti-vaxxers
“ The new COVID vaccine is here. Why these are the best times to get immunized ,” (modbee.com, Aug. 29)
There is a movement of people who think vaccinations are bad and cannot be trusted. As a former nurse in my late 80s, I have been around long enough to be able to speak to the truth of these vaccines: No one today has experienced very serious diseases such as diphtheria, pertussis (whooping cough), tetanus (lock jaw), poliomyelitis or tuberculosis because most of us were vaccinated.
Younger people have no idea what misery these inflictions cause — I saw it first-hand as a young person and nurse back when there were hospital wards for TB and polio patients. A few exceptions of bad outcomes from vaccines are very unfortunate, but the greater good has been served, saving so many people from being crippled or dying.
Those who do not know the history of these diseases are likely to repeat that history. Those who preach falsehoods about vaccinations are hurting their offspring and themselves.
Carol Tamo
Modesto
Think before you vote
“ Donald Trump says he can stabilize prices. Does his plan make any sense? ” (modbee.com, Sept. 4)
When you cast your ballot this year, keep a couple of things in mind: Donald Trump is not qualified to be president. There is no world in which his talent, experience or leadership abilities render him the opportunity to be a successful president. He was roundly rejected after his first term. A second try will be no better.
If you believe there is some larger government entity that will prevent him from exercising his worst impulses, think again. There isn’t. Congress won’t stop him. The Supreme Court won’t stop him. If he manages to convince Congress that the election process needs “improving,” you won’t be able to stop him either.
Put aside your ideological beliefs for this election and consider what you see in front you: An experienced prosecutor, senator and vice president versus a failed businessman who spends his life and fortune fighting the law at every turn, filled with anger and hate, who views most of us as losers and suckers.
Richard Cato
Modesto
Local News
