If Joann Williams (“Show respect for the president,” Feb. 9) had read my poem on the inauguration (“A poem for Inauguration Day,” Jan. 26) more carefully, she could rest assured that it did not advocate for the assassination or murder of anyone. I do not believe violence is ever the answer, and would never suggest its use.
My poem states very clearly that assassination is NOT the answer:
“Assassination? Impeachment?
Will he tire and quit?
All are possible. None the answer.”
Based on her own belief, she said my poem’s message was a violation of free speech and chastised the Sun for printing it. I believe the Sun publishing my poem and her reply is an example of free speech in a free country. It reassures us all that the press is still free here in Santa Maria, just as our Constitution intended.
This article appears in Feb 16-23, 2017.