To the editor:
I'd like to know where Mr. Cook got his "information" regarding his writings about the Tea Party (Times, Aug. 30).
I don't know that he has attended a Tea Party or spoken to a member, and one should always seek both sides of a situation before passing judgment.
The Tea Parties are many and varied. There is no one spokesperson for all. The Tea Parties are made up of individuals from many walks of life with many ideas. It is this individualism that has made our country strong from the beginning; we Americans are not sheep, frightened to stand up and hold different opinions, even in a group.
There are a few concepts on which Tea Party members agree:
The Constitution, as our founders wrote it.
State sovereignty, more decision making to the American people.
Smaller government, with accountability to the American people.
Fewer and lower taxes, so people have money to feed their children, pay their mortgage, heat their homes, and contribute to the economy.
As to misuse of funds, very few Tea Parties have fundraisers. Monies that are raised are used for things necessary for events.
I can speak for the Cape Ann Tea Party, of which I am part.
We do not raise money. We have given out baked goods, coffee and water at our Paul Revere, Original Boston Tea Party educational event last April, free of charge. We also distributed pocket copies of the Constitution during the Horribles Parade, so more people can read it and learn about our heritage.
These were paid for by a few Tea Party members who wished to do so. We also gave out red,white and blue pens and small American flags at other events, all at no charge to the public.
There have been many peaceful rallies without hate, racism or confrontations — I know, as I have been present at many of them.
All are welcome to our Tea Party rallies to see forthemselves what we are about.
Marlene Hodgkins
Gloucester
