Editor:

Reading the Facebook comments to The Herald’s “Dozens march against Trump Executive Order,” story, I was disappointed to see posts that ridiculed marchers: “more whiny college students,” “I bet none of them could even name the seven countries that were banned,” “so they are not true citizens” and “maybe they should find something better to do.” The lack of public civility was surprising.

I believe civility is slowly eroding from our public discourse. Using social media, we feel empowered by anonymity and comments turn to personal attacks, at times forgetting there are actual individuals on the other side of that post, tweet or message.

We can disagree on politics and our political leaders, but we should do so with civility. Civility is being courteous towards someone even though they may have a different point of view. Civility is being respectful and not name calling or throwing insults. Civility is being considerate of people as humans, not as labels.

The next time you want to post a comment, please think about these factors. Be a role model for others. It’s okay for us to disagree on issues, politics or religion, but explain why you believe what you do without name calling or mocking someone for what they believe.

I applaud Longwood students for engaging in democracy. Doing so isn’t easy. Standing up for what you believe, even in the face of opposition and name calling, takes strength and conviction of character. And they did so with civility and pride.

Alec Hosterman

Farmville