The assassination of Charlie Kirk

I disagreed with Charlie Kirk over many issues such as gun controls, Gaza and Trump. But I respected his right to express his opinions. That is the nature of free speech and tolerance of differing viewpoints in a democracy.  

Kirk made provocative and extreme statements. But he defended the rights of people, even those of his political adversaries, to express their opinions.  There is a major difference between provocative words and violent actions. I join with all others who support democratic freedoms in condemning the assassination of Charlie Kirk. My condolences to his wife, family and friends.  

I think we need to be very wary of jumping into the culture wars of far left or extreme right. They are often oversimplifcations that do little but promote divisions, tear at the fabric of society and undermine the common good. As a society we need to relearn how to debate issues, with a respect for the human dignity of the other, without resorting to violence.