RACISM: It’s not fascism

I’m writing in response to Pat Evans who responded to Gayla Moseley’s earlier letter regarding today’s Republican Party being autocratic and leaning toward fascism.

Pat denies that the GOP is racist, which was not Ms. Moseley’s comment at all. Racism and fascism are very different although admittedly extreme fascism did lead to severe racist actions in mid-20th century Europe.

Perhaps Pat would be well advised to study the definitions of fascism and racism so as not to confuse them and use them interchangeably. Ms. Moseley clearly states that her love of family is her reason for staying in Coeur d’Alene, where she was born and has lived all her life. I’m sure she is well aware of increased property values but chooses to stay here.

This community has an unfortunate reputation of autocracy. In Mexico recently, an American couple asked if I was a member of a militia when they learned I lived in North Idaho. Is this the kind of value we want to be known for? I think not.

VIRGINIA O’CONNOR

Dalton Gardens