I just returned from chaperoning the overnight graduation party for seniors at Vancouver School of Arts and Academics. These students, many of whom identify as queer (LGBTQ+), were extremely kind and respectful. I mention this because of the hate directed at the LGBTQ+ community by religious radicals and many Republican politicians. I was inspired that our students will bring the kindness and respect of others that is lacking from so many of today’s politicians.
Returning home from the party, my hope turned to anger when I read Bob Waber’s letter to the editor (“Do away with student meals,” Our Readers’ Views, June 14). Bob believes it is a waste of taxpayer money to provide a healthy lunch to needy children because they already qualify for food stamps.
If he really is concerned about the federal deficit as he claims, then he should turn his attention to defense spending, not feeding children. Almost 40 percent of the U.S. budget goes to defense.
The children of this country are our greatest resource – a resource we should all be willing to invest in. The kindness and respect I saw by the VSAA students is the world I want to live in, not the mean-spirited world presented by Bob.
