To the editor:

I am responding to the Letter titled “Peace and Justice” in the July 15 edition of The Journal. It is unfortunate that the writer has chosen to apply some hidden agenda to what I hope can and should be taken at face value: “If you want peace, work for justice.” He suggests that there is a “political agenda to overthrow our Constitution.” He also states that justice was most fully realized when slavery was abolished in 1863 and segregation was outlawed in 1964. I struggle to understand how anyone who pays attention to the news and to history, can believe that justice for all has been achieved in this country. Minority persons continue to be discriminated against and treated poorly under the law disproportionate to whites, and by many of our citizens. Yes, our Constitution provides for equal rights, but slavery lasted long after the Constitution was adopted. Our country has struggled with understanding what it truly means to have equal rights, and has failed to deliver on this promise.

So, there is not Justice now for many of our citizens, and therefore it is not surprising that we see protests and unrest — this is the American, democratic manner in which change is achieved. And no, I and most who support this effort, do not condone, promote or participate in militant, violent, and destructive behavior. So I hope that the writer will not judge those who have chosen to exercise their right of Freedom of Speech, by posting a sign with a simple message, in the hopes that we continue to move our country, and all citizens, to full acceptance of equality and just treatment. As the writer appears to support the notion of equal rights for all, this should be an effort that can unite us, rather than divide us!

Steve Schneider

New Ulm