We commend guest columnist Tim Coffey for challenging two individuals who claimed that black people are inferior to white people.

They were spewing racism in a public place, audible to others, not in a “private conversation.” History does not start over every morning. Public advocacy of racism has always gone hand-in-hand with acts of racism, from genocide to lynching, to discrimination in housing, employment, education and policing.

One aspect of opposing racism is to “stand up in the face of bigotry,” as Tim did, rather than allow silence to be taken for agreement. If more of us followed Tim’s example — and organized against racist policies and practices as well — the world would be a better place.

Rick and Peggy Rhoads

Orcas Island