Letter to the editor: Calling for civility in our democracy

Dear Editor, 

The reason I’m voting for Kamala Harris and Tim Walz is quite simple. Civility. Yes, I could get into the policy decisions that also draw me to their candidacy, but largely I am ready to move past the kind of disparaging rhetoric and fearmongering that has dominated politics ever since Donald Trump entered the equation.

We need to restore decency to our democracy and model for the rest of the world that we can agree to disagree in this country without being enemies. It is imperative to argue for one’s position respectfully, through rigorous discourse and diplomacy, and not through demeaning, personal insults. And that aside from some of our different beliefs or opinions about governing an incredibly diverse nation, we remain friends, family, neighbors, colleagues, and classmates. It’s what sets the USA apart from much of the rest of the world. Our democracy hinges on these most basic, sometimes unwritten, rules and principles of common decency and respect for others, even when we disagree with each other about shared governance.

The Harris/Walz ticket gives us the best chance to restore some civility to our democracy and I believe they will cultivate an inclusive agenda that strives to work for all Americans. They have already demonstrated such commitment through their prior work as district attorney, teacher, soldier, and coach. These are not career choices made by people looking only to enrich themselves. These are career choices made by people committed to helping others.

My name is Freddy Villano. I am a professional musician, writer, theater practitioner, Alexander Technique teacher, and proud husband, brother, son, uncle, cousin, nephew, friend, colleague, neighbor, and cat wrangler.

-Freddy Villano, Ithaca