opINION: Make Memorial Day a day to ask why
The parades. The flags. The proud men in uniform carrying their weapons like trophies. There will be cookouts and sales. Eat. Buy. Talk of sports, kids and the weather. Nothing serious. Don’t spoil the day. Don’t upset anyone.
I’m a Vietnam veteran and I’d like to see Memorial Day be a day for dialogue on issues that really matter.
Why are weapons our No. 1 export product? Why do we have over 700 military bases in over 140 countries? Why do almost half of our tax dollars go to the war industry? Why do we cheer when the government assassinates someone? Why do we think we are better than the rest of the world? Why are we so afraid? Why don’t we know our history? Why don’t we talk about “difficult” things?
So, while you’re grilling your hot dogs or standing at the parade, bring up an issue, and engage in dialogue. The children and this country are depending on it. Make Memorial Day a day to ask - Why?
Arnold Stieber
Grass Lake
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