Our county continues its struggles to accept that hate exists within its borders. The December 6, 2023, commissioners’ meeting was a boiling pot of LGBTAQ+, Jewish, genocide and white supremacist commentaries. Ironically it was also a celebration of our Penn State Extension’s 100 anniversary. A true occasion of blending hate and love.
People citing fears of being called out on Milford’s Broad Street as “f*gs.” Elders in fear of life in Hemlock Farms for their religion. A woman reminiscing hate faced due to her national origin. A loud outspoken person over talking our commissioners about compelling free speech. Oh yes, and a young woman pleading for better child services versus tearing families apart.
Standing room only community of gardeners, volunteers and loving men and women was also notably present. Smiling and kind faces lit up the commissioners’ conference room. The warmth of these community minded folks was heart healthy. Penn State Extension members reignited hope, respect and pure love within our Pike County.
A meeting, lasting about an hour, took the participant through dialogs of hate and of love. The human brain, in the inferior frontal cortex, is wired so strategically to address our extreme emotions. We strive for social circles and inclusion. We also fight hard to keep the circles secure.
Our state has a law enforcement section called Heritage Affairs. Wow, what a bizarre name for troopers who address hate crime and a wee bit of hate speech. Micro aggression and cyber bullying is somewhat off the radar of our “protectors.” It appears to me that law enforcement is still learning and attempting approaches to address hate.
Love takes work. We need to learn how and what to accept. It takes energy to be tolerant. Jumping to judgment and hate is the easiest activity for some humans.
Kevin Holian
Dingman