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LETTERS IN THE EDITOR'S MAILBAG.

Article Excerpt
Byline: The Register-Guard

Kids can play safely in Mexico

I was incensed to read the May 19 article "Gabriel's Home for Sure" by Winston Ross.

I do not have issue with the placement of the child in the former foster home. The article says the grandmother withdrew her request for adoption. I will assume that all parties involved are satisfied.

I am, however, outraged that the article states that it is somehow dangerous for children to grow up in Mexico. In our rich country, we have lost touch with what is truly dangerous and threatening. It is embarrassing that there are places one must dismantle a sand castle upon leaving the beach so that others won't trip over it.

Every year, my children, ages 9 and 12, spend time in Mexico visiting small villages similar to the one where this grandmother lives. My children eat with the locals, play with the kids and visit their homes. My children are safer there and enjoy a greater degree of freedom than here in the States. In a society that is not afraid of every perceived possible threat, kids in these poor but socially thriving villages are capable, independent and explorative. The children are provided for by the family and the village with modest means and accoutrements. They are not dying by the thousands from falling off roofs or from eating off dishes washed in a bucket.

My 9-year-old says, "The person who wrote that article must have never visited Mexico." I'm with her. Shame on our elitist, racist and egocentric society.

Shannon Poynter

Lorane

Blessing in the subjunctive mood

While I may agree with the...

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