For several decades, there has been a concerted effort to destroy trust in our public institutions. Trust in public institutions related to education, health care, public lands, infrastructure, and the environment have all been under attack. For most of this period, it has been relatively subtle. More recently, the attack has become extreme, including blatant efforts to destroy the very foundations of our democracy.
For the sake of our kids and grandkids, we need to make a concerted effort to rebuild this trust. Trust in public institutions is critical for our survival as a species and for our democratic values. Yes, they may need reform, yet they are necessary for us to function as a healthy culture – and in some cases, for us to survive as a species.
If we are open to examining the experience of others around the world, there are lessons to be learned; some things to do better; some things to avoid.
We need to push past the cynicism and fear, to regain our ability to once again have civil discourse, to problem-solve together, to find middle ground, to compromise when necessary. If we make an effort, we will likely be surprised at how much we have in common with each other.
Kindness and respect are essential. We can do it if we try.
John Burg
Glenwood Springs
