IFF: Not a hate group

A story on the front page on June 14 reproduced an article written by Clark Corbin, a reporter from the Idaho Capital Sun. I strongly suggest the reporter do his homework prior to submitting a story for print.

He describes a person named Eric Ward who has the unquestionable credential as a senior fellow at the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC). He also happens to be a director of the Western States Center of the Idaho Freedom Foundation. First and foremost, SPLC is known to be a far-left organization determined to promote progressive ideals that are for the most part simply socialism by another name. The favorite tactic of the SPLC is to label as a “hate group” any organization that has principles and beliefs that differ from their own. The Idaho Freedom Foundation is a conservative organization supporting the ideals of most North Idaho folks.

So any comments from Mr. Eric Ward must be taken with a grain of salt and a great deal of skepticism as he is very likely biased in his thinking. He is cynical concerning the reason conservative people are alarmed with the possibility of teaching critical race theory in our public schools and other public institutions. As a conservative, I strongly support the effort to prevent the teaching of critical race theory to children or anyone else. The world is not divided between two classes of people, the oppressed and oppressor. Nor should white people today feel guilty for the sins of our ancestors.

Mr. Ward suggests the effort being put forth by conservatives to prevent teaching this propaganda is simply to stir up the base prior to the next election. He has every right to express his opinion, however, I hope your readers recognize that Mr. Ward is promoting a bald face lie.

PAUL LAMPHIER

Post Falls