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Editor: 

In these conflicting and difficult times we citizens and those whom we have elected to office must have the courage to stand up, speak with a clear voice, and seek the highest moral ground. As a nation and as a city we must continue to commit ourselves to greater social justice and democracy around the world. We must nurture a compassionate willingness to share our wealth, resources and intelligence with our own people and with the family of nations. 

In the aftermath of Sept. 11, as we feel profound sadness for those who have been lost, we must react not only with anger but also with compassion and understanding. If we do not, the whole world will condemn us and more pain and suffering will be inflicted on innocent people. 

I praise those Berkeley citizens and City Councilmembers who showed courage and leadership in seeking the high moral ground. It will be Councilmember Dona Spring’s legacy that in critical times like these, she didn’t jump on the bandwagon of cheap talk and popular rhetoric. She is like a bright banner waving up in our blue Berkeley skies. That’s the kind of leadership we so desperately need in our city and nation. 

Roger Van Ouytsel 

Berkeley