Friday, March 17, 2017

Quoting Spider-Man to President Trump


President Trump
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Ave
Washington DC 20500
17 March 2017 

Dear President Trump,  

One of the most basic ideas of justice is that might doesn’t make right.  To put it another way, the strongest and most powerful do to have the right to dominate those in a weaker position.  More than that, those to whom more has been given have a greater responsibility toward those who have less.  This basic idea of justice is reflected in everything from the Old and New Testaments and the Law Code of Hammurabi, to the oft-repeated words of Spider-Man, “With great power comes great responsibility.”

There have certainly been moments in history when those in positions of great power chose to use their influence for personal and selfish gain and to bully those in weaker positions.  History does not remember such people well.   

When you talk about cutting the EPA, you are taking away an agency that protects the environment for people who do not have the power to protect it themselves.  When you talk about banning refugees from coming into this country, you are closing the door to those who are poor, war-weary, and in need of shelter.  When you talk about cutting health insurance from millions of Americans, you are talking about denying care to the people who need it the most and cannot afford it.  These are people who need your help.  You are turning your back on them. 

Being rich is not something to be ashamed of, but neither is it, in and of itself a virtue.  Being rich is certainly not a license to treat others poorly.  Being president is not an opportunity to throw your weight around, bully others, or act selfishly.  Being president is an opportunity to serve all the American people, especially those who lack resources, a voice, or power – and make their lives better.  You can be a great president who helps those who need you, or you can be a bully.  I encourage you to act justly.   

Sincerely,

 William Boerman-Cornell

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