Since when does one wearing an American flag t-shirt equate to that you are a racist? That is exactly what happened a few weeks ago to our friends fourteen year old son, while riding his bike, in downtown Enumclaw. This respectful young man was yelled at by three different adults – that he was “a racist” because he was wearing American flag bearing apparel.

This is an imperfect nation, built by imperfect people, but it’s still the best nation in the world. Wearing our nation’s flag could simply mean you are proud to be an American. Or that you support our servicemen and servicewomen, some of them making the ultimate sacrifice, so that we may all live free.

Additionally, many of our ancestors flocked to the United States for the promise of a better life. They were essentially Americans – “by choice.” If you don’t like this nation, or the American flag (and what it truly stands for!), then you’ve got a choice – move.

And to those adults throwing verbal stones at a child… shame on you! Perhaps before you make snap judgements about someone you clearly do not know, maybe you should instead judge your own character.

Todd and Libby Rademacher

Enumclaw