Our diversity must also include political thought

Boulder has long been known as “four square miles surrounded by reality,” a phrase that, while humorous, highlights the stark political divide between this city and much of the rest of the country. However, as a conservative resident of Boulder, I want to remind my fellow citizens that not everyone here shares the dominant political views so often echoed in the pages of the Daily Camera.

I’ve noticed an increase in letters and op-eds harshly criticizing the current president and administration. While disagreement and debate are essential to a healthy democracy, the constant negativity and outright dismissal of alternative perspectives do little to foster constructive dialogue. Instead, many of us — who represent the voting majority — seek leadership, inspiration, and effective governance rather than endless complaints and unchecked spending.

Boulder prides itself on diversity, yet that diversity should extend beyond race, gender and culture — it must also include political thought. Unfortunately, many conservatives in this community feel marginalized, dismissed or even silenced. While some may argue that this city’s progressive identity is its strength, it becomes a weakness when it fosters an ideological echo chamber that refuses to acknowledge differing viewpoints.

Elections have consequences, and the American people made a choice. Those who disagree have every right to voice their concerns, but they must also recognize that governing requires compromise, responsibility and the ability to see beyond partisan outrage. Many of us here in Boulder believe that the current administration is working to address the challenges facing our nation, and we reject the idea that it should be defined solely by its flaws.

True progress isn’t about shouting the loudest or dominating the discourse — it’s about listening, understanding and working together for a stronger future.

— Michael Mastous, Lafayette

The consequences of ignoring hard truths

My friend Spense Havlick’s guest opinion was both beautiful and deeply unsettling. As we progress through Black History Month — a time to reflect on our struggles, resilience and the lessons of the past — I find myself grappling with a painful question: How can young people, and many others including People of Color, support President Trump when he has told us, clearly and unapologetically, what he intends to do?

Perhaps it is not just a matter of being forgetful. Maybe it stems from something deeper — a belief that, because we see ourselves as good, we assume others are too. Even when someone openly declares their intent to harm, to divide, to strip away rights and dignity, we convince ourselves they won’t actually follow through. After all, following through on destructive intentions takes time, effort and emotional energy. It is inconvenient, exhausting and often unpopular. So we assume that, even if someone has harmful ideas, they won’t go to great lengths to enact them.

Most of us also see the future as a blank slate — a space for change that could bring something better rather than something worse. We want to believe in progress, in the possibility that things will improve rather than deteriorate. But history has shown us that the worst outcomes often come not from sudden catastrophes but from slow, deliberate actions taken by those who made their intentions clear from the start.

Black History Month is a reminder of the consequences of ignoring hard truths. Our ancestors warned of danger when others dismissed them as alarmists. They fought for rights many thought would never be won — or never be taken away. We owe it to them to listen, to learn and to act with clear-eyed determination.

Spense’s piece captures this reality so well. It is both a warning and a call to action.

— Junie Joseph, House District 10 Representative, Boulder