The future of our democracy depends on citizens willing to seek the truth

by Melissa Hale-Spencer

It doesn’t matter if you are a Republican or a Democrat, a conservative or a progressive, your duty to seek the truth transcends party allegiance and political philosophy.

We must learn from the past as we shape our future

Reorganizational meetings, where newly elected officers are sworn in, always reassure us. They are rituals of democracy that show, based on the will of the people, power can be transferred in an orderly and meaningful way.

Shine a light in this time of darkness

“He was in school before they had special-ed programs …. This guy’s whole life was about overcoming difficulties ….,” Mr. Mullins said. “After he dropped out of school, he worked as a gravedigger, a mason, a carpenter, a paver until he was drafted in 1967.”

Guilderland must legislate to preserve its history

Some towns, like Clifton Park, go further than New Scotland, incentivizing property owners with tax breaks to encourage them to preserve their historic buildings much the way Guilderland does with property owners willing to commit to not developing their land.

Targeting the news won’t solve our problems

Citizens have a responsibility to read, to listen to, to look for, and to embrace news from sources that will widen their perspectives and understanding. After all, since it is the people who hold sovereign power in our democracy, they must not be like King Tigranes and listen only to those with whom they agree. They must not kill the messengers — the journalists who tell the truth.

‘Our march to freedom is not complete unless want is annihilated’

Carlos Bulosan wrote, “Our challenge to tyranny is the depth of our faith in a democracy worth defending.” 

Berne board must restore trust with the citizens it serves

Had the board looked into Joel Willsey’s claims and addressed them rather than mocking or dismissing them, a worker may have been given a fair chance and the town may have had a chance to right itself and follow proper protocol.