To the editor:
I am writing in response to Mr. Diamond's letter (the Times, Saturday, April 21, "Jacques' remarks and the 'thought police'").
While I certainly do not know the whole context or facts surrounding the issue between Selectman Sandy Jacques and Selectwoman Sarah Wilkinson, the alleged use of sexist language, especially by a public official, does concern me.
But what concerns me even more was the implication of Mr. Diamond's letter.
In commenting on his own history of being subjected to anti-Semitic jokes, he states, "In over 50 years of this ridicule, I've never taken anyone to task over the matter."
The implication, if I am reading him correctly, is that — since Mr. Diamond has endured anti-Semitic comments — that others should tolerate insults, in this case, sexist ones, as well.
This logic baffles me. Both are inexcusable, and as an individual, I choose to not let either pass without comment. Just because someone does not speak out about an affront to dignity, that doesn't make it less of one.
To Mr. Diamond, I would like to offer my services to stand with him to challenge any insult to his faith tradition.
And I am sure I can wrangle up some my "militant feminists" friends who might rise to the occasion, too.
MARK ATKINSON
San Jose, Calif.
(Former Rockport resident, and current visitor)
