History happened!

During certain periods and years, certain ethnic groups suffered more than others. Present generations are angry, hurt about what happened to their ancestors at a time when this kind of behavior toward them was known. They say they are offended and that nothing has changed or progressed since then.

The taking down of statues, changing of street names, covering up of statues, and now not having a recording of Kate Smith singing "God Bless America" at sports arenas and ball parks does not make the past go away.

The two songs in question which Kate Smith sang, she could not be aware then that they would be hurtful now. History should be studied and learned from, and people should adapt the way we treat each other regardless of race, religion and background. These symbols represent where we were as a nation, where we are and where we are headed. They can be taken down, changed, stored away and demolished, but what happened in the past cannot be erased.

People have different views about our nation's development. Some of it is not so pleasant, but by researching it and getting along we can can make progress toward a better future. Embrace history and move forward!

David R. Macomber

Westport