I am writing today about a story that I heard of a Russian student who did not want to attend school because of the Russia Ukraine War. Whichever side you sit upon, keep in mind the USA is a melting pot society. We come from many backgrounds, we come from many nationalities and we come from many different walks of life.
For many of these folks, the USA signified the freedom they never felt in their home country. In Battle Ground, we have many nationalities including a vast number of Ukrainian, Russian and Romanian. In all of these cases, regardless of when they left their country, their families made the decision to seek a new life in what I consider to be the greatest country in the world. With that being said, understand that none of these folks have anything to do with what is going on in Ukraine now.
As I think about these folks, I hope you consider that they still have family in these respective nations in many cases. They have no control to make decisions about this war. They do not have the ability to do much at all honestly. What I can only imagine is that they are praying as many of us are that their families are safe and healthy during this turbulent time.
Be kind to one another. There is no need to call names, harass, or belittle our American brothers and sisters. We are one community and there is no need for disdain toward the Russians or Ukrainian immigrants who live here. Remember, many of them still likely have loved ones over there and supporting them during this time is the right thing to do. Together, united, we are strong.
Todd Witthauer,
Battle Ground
