By Patti Short, Dana Point
Last night I saw a post on a neighborhood internet site that called proponents of “NO on H” “horrible people.” I took it personally as I am an opponent of Measure H. I oppose the measure because it is misleading, has financial consequences and stops the progress of a long-awaited and needed Town Center.
I don’t believe my Dana Point neighbors and friends who know me and may disagree with my position think I am hideous, disgusting or deplorable. Yet a total stranger has branded me as such along with anyone else who opposes Measure H.
I would like to make it very clear that unlike some Measure H proponents, those of us who are opposed to H and in favor of I do not refuse admittance to people with opposing viewpoints to neighborhood meetings; we do not confront or threaten neighbors who put up signs opposing our viewpoint; we do not shout personal insults at supporters of the opposing view; we do not launch Facebook attacks calling for boycotts of any business who puts up a sign opposing our view and we do not trespass on private property to remove signs in support of the opposing view unless instructed to do so by the property owner.
We are fortunate to live in a country that protects and defends our right to free speech. We can disagree, and we can make a personal decision to withhold our patronage and support from those with whom we disagree; however, no one should be intimidated or be made to feel fearful of any consequences either personal or financial for exercising that right.
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