To the editor:

So, anyone who disagrees with President Trump he equates with not being American and not liking America? Disagreement means you are not American? Here's the thing … in actuality, being able to disagree is the bassis of our free society. America was also founded on valuing our diversity, not deriding it or anyone who is different. I hope more people see that he regards loyalty to him as more important than our American freedoms and values.

He tries to attack and silence anyone who disagrees with him. What if the president told you or your loved ones to leave this country because you didn't agree with him?

Yes, not surprising for Trump but still shocking that this president represents our country and that more Republicans have not spoken out stronger against his statement "go back to where you came from" to elected congresswomen. There is no question this statement is based in racism (article link — https://www.npr.org/2019/07/15/741827580/go-back-where-you-came-from-the-long-rhetorical-roots-of-trump-s-racist-tweets). When asked if it bothered President Trump that white nationalists supported his statement, he again did not back down or deride white nationalists. He didn’t even tell the crowd at his rally to stop when they chanted “Send her back.”

Whether you agree or disagree with the elected congresswomen’s points of view is a separate issue. Your concerns should go beyond whether you are aligned with Democratic or Republican agendas. We should all be concerned that the current president is casting aside the basic values of our country.

What message do his statements send to our country?

Diversity is a basic ideal which strengthens our country. However, his statements often embolden those who are fearful of and angry toward diversity.

What message do his statements send to other countries? 
We have always been viewed as the defender of freedom. Now are we seen as the country that essentially says, “If you don't agree with us or are different than us, go away!?”

This is such a sad time in history. Imagine what the history books will say (this being just one example of many concerning actions and statements of this president).

He is fanning the flames of fear, resentment and prejudice. Please don’t let him light them in you. Don’t let his tactics make you silent or join his attacks. We are so much better than this as a people and as a country.

With concern and hope for our country,

Maureen Umehara

Tiverton