To the Editor:

I want to take opportunity to thank Rev. Whitcomb for his letter to the editor of Aug. 12.

This was a great history lesson. I moved to Emmaus about 15 years ago and although I did not know any of these details concerning racism in Emmaus, you can probably substitute the name of any small town USA and hear a similar history.

I am from the Boyertown area and we have had our issues with the Klan and like-minded folks for decades. I think here in Emmaus as in many towns like Boyertown and across the nation decently minded citizens are making their voices heard – like Rev. Whitcomb – and I, for one, want to stand beside them and agree.

I have been encouraged to see many residents of our small towns come out onto the sidewalks to stand against racism. Thank you again Rev. Whitcomb for the correct history. I appreciate not having these dark times swept under the rug. We all benefit from knowing the truth.

Our Southern neighbors are taking a hard look at things in their states. We need to as well. I am very encouraged that good folks everywhere are making positive decisions. These times are very trying in so many ways. Not everyone makes good decisions but if enough of us do hopefully it will spread.

Yes, we all have made mistakes but once we all come together as decent, good-hearted citizens this country still has not seen the potential that day would be.

God Bless that America!

Teresa Haas

Emmaus