in no place wadsworth

The simple fact is that online hate served as a signal to many extremist groups that Wadsworth is a place where Nazis can show their face. This is shameful. Because there continues to be noise all over the internet about the protests and the event, many choose to sit back and watch the trouble unfold. It can be intimidating to speak up in such a hostile environment, but it is the biggest power a citizen holds.

A big argument that has surged with the drag event was that it was harmful to children.

The idea that children were in danger because the event was labeled “family-friendly” and included a drag queen is simply ignorant. No one was required to go, and a drag queen merely existing is not going to plant seeds in a child’s head. As a generalization, most children have access to the internet, television, and various other forms of media. It is not unlikely to assume that they have heard of the LGBTQ+ community before, and even more unlikely to assume that this is the last they will hear.

QUEER PEOPLE EXIST, REGARDLESS OF THE TYPE

THEY ARE A PART OF.

This plays into the idea that being queer is a choice, one that can be influenced by one’s surroundings. This is a complete conspiracy. Queer people exist regardless of the type of environment they are a part of. It is up to every parent or guardian to determine how to inform a child and teach them. However, it is unrealistic to believe that children will never come into contact with people that live different lifestyles than what they are used to.

Because there was so much controversy spread to every corner of the internet, our town was endangered by Neo-Nazis. Many Nazis traveled from different states to come and protest. If we do not stand up to these other hate groups, they will consider it an invitation to come back. Wadsworth is an excellent community, and we cannot let our silence be an answer to those who have jeopardized the people at the event, the local businesses, the citizens who are part of and associated with the LGBTQ+ community, and the very grounds of what this city stands for. Not only does this affect everyone in the town, but it also pushes a threatening message out to everyone targeted by Nazis, for example, all Jewish people or anyone of color.

If we as citizens are truly against the hate portrayed in the protests, it is necessary to overtake the violent threats and use our strength in numbers to provide a voice of support to all those affected.

To let go of stability and lose sight of a common goal, at its core, is anarchy.

If we begin to seek the common good and stand up to opportunistic extremists, Wadsworth will be a solid, safe city. Conversely, if this does not happen– if the fearmongering continues, if citizens shy away from the issue for fear of being disagreed with– disaster is bound to happen. It is up to us to use our voices to keep the Wadsworth community safe for all.