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Bay Area owes Codythanks for swift action
Re: “Public health: Officials lament breakdown in trust, but most would do it again in similar circumstances” (Page A1, March 16).
In response to your article on Mar. 21, I believe we owe Santa Clara County Health Officer Sara Cody a thank you for potentially saving thousands of lives.
Due to her rapid response to the spread of the COVID pandemic, the San Francisco Bay Area earned the distinction of having among the lowest death rates in the country. Other states were envious but unwilling to follow our lead.
Despite much criticism and personal threats, she advised closing schools and nonessential businesses, avoiding large groups, wearing masks, and keeping 6 feet of spacing between people. These precautions kept the hospitalization and death rates down.
Fortunately, many of her colleagues agreed. Unfortunately, some people were more concerned about their finances and their kids falling behind in school. It is surprising that a parent would be more concerned about their child’s academic progress than their physical health.
This community owes Dr. Cody an apology for criticizing her mandates and a big thanks.
Myra OrtaLos Altos
Deportations damagethe whole community
I’m deeply concerned about rising discrimination and deportation in our community. These issues affect not just individuals but our city’s economy, trust in institutions and unity. Deporting hardworking people disrupts businesses and spreads fear, causing residents to avoid authorities — even when they need help.
I believe in a city that stands for justice, compassion and equality. No one should feel unsafe due to their background. We must educate ourselves and each other to replace fear with understanding.
I urge city leaders to support programs such as public forums, school curricula on inclusion and awareness campaigns. Supporting immigrant-serving organizations is also key.
As a student, I’m committed to raising awareness through community work and youth engagement. Together, through education and empathy, we can foster a stronger, more united community.
Fernanda Martinez RomeroSan Jose
Republicans disregardjudicial independence
Re: “GOP eyes actions against courts, judges as Trump fights rulings” (Page A3, March 26).
The attacks against the rule of law and judicial independence by the president and the Republicans are shocking. It is unfortunate that the public has little understanding of the consequences that will follow this unchecked behavior.
Yes, elections have consequences, which is why we must remember the threats to impeach, reduce funding and close courts, as well as the power to appoint judges who will not follow the law and who prefer to bow to the president. Those who do not support judicial independence should not hold office, especially in Congress.
Democracy requires nothing less.
Eugene HymanLos Altos
Violence in Gazademands accountability
The recent events in Gaza have resulted in the deaths of more than two-dozen people, including children. Among the victims was Al Jazeera journalist Hossam Shabat, killed by an Israeli airstrike on March 24. In a letter, Shabat urged the world to continue speaking out, saying, “Do not let the world look away.” Journalist Mohammed Mansour was also killed in an airstrike near Khan Younis, highlighting the dangerous climate for reporters in Gaza. Additionally, Palestinian filmmaker Hamdan Ballal was assaulted by Israeli settlers in the West Bank.
These incidents reflect the ongoing violence and oppression facing Palestinians. As the situation worsens, the world must demand accountability, especially from the United States, which has been fueling much of the conflict.
Jag SinghLos Altos
State must prioritizeprotecting the coast
Re: “Coastal panel hit by right and left” (Page A1, March 23).
Protecting the California coast used to be a priority for our state government. Not anymore. For over 50 years, the Coastal Commission and environmentalists have tried to keep sprawl from beaches and oceans, and we have all benefited from this access.
Previously, more conservative federal governments have tried to take away protections, and we’ve fought against oil wells, pipelines, power plants and military base incursions along the shoreline. Now, however, our own left-leaning California government is so obsessed with overpopulating and overdeveloping the state that they are willing to roll back environmental protections and lessen support for the Coastal Commission.
We don’t need Miami-like high-rise towers, over-developed malls and private beaches. We don’t need millions of more people and their associated infrastructure. It is time to strengthen environmental laws, stop over-building and lessen the impact of previous zoning mistakes that allowed development in inappropriate places — like coastal areas.
Tina PeakPalo Alto