Let Me Get This Straight
I read an article about some guy who wrote a letter slamming Target for not giving money to veterans charities, not allowing the Salvation Army to set up kettles at their stores and instead they support animal, gay and lesbian charities and how they are owned by a French corporation. He wants America to boycott Target because of this. Because he only used his first name and I have no idea where he lives to send my reply, I will post it here.Dear Edward,
In response to your letter titled “America Is Off Target”, I just have a few things I’d like to say.
Asking the people of our country to be good Americans and boycott Target because it does not support veteran’s charities and the Salvation Army is ridiculous. What makes this country so great is that we have the freedom, not only people, but corporations as well, to support the myriad of charities and agencies that are local and national. This country has the people, means and heart to encourage others to support the less fortunate, no matter what the cause is. We are blessed to live in such a great country where private citizens want to help others. Unfortunately there are so many people and charities in need that we can’t help them all, so we must search our hearts to find who and what we can support. Not supporting veterans is no fault of Target, but maybe our government should do more for the people who served. As for the Salvation Army, from what I understand they accept donations all year long, not just at Christmas. So instead of waiting for the kettle to appear, send a check to your local Salvation Army agency.
As far as Target being owned by a French corporation, well then so be it. I would say the majority of companies in America are owned by a parent company in another country, and good Americans shouldn’t judge to hard working people you see in the stores everyday, because they would be the ones who would be affected by your boycott, not the decision makers. Money spent at Target will still boost America’s economy and go to the charities Target does support.
Use your freedom of speech and write a letter to Target explaining how important it is to support veterans. Maybe there is something they don’t know, and you can help them change their minds. If Target still decides not to support the veterans, be appreciative of the charities they do support. Just because they don’t support the charities you would like them to, does not make them a bad company. You can still support the veterans.
Democracy is not forcing your opinion or using threats to get what you want or to make people change their minds. About sixty or seventy years ago a society tried that once and failed. Democracy is a gift we have been given that was fought for and we should embrace it and use it for the good that can come of it.
Sincerely,
Loren J F Stanford
