Perspectives course a must for all students

Kudos to the school administration in Cedar Rapids for supporting the work of Emily Thomson in teaching her 'Perspectives” course ('Why a right-leaning website targeted a Cedar Rapids high school class,” Sept. 14).

In these trying times, learning to listen critically but respectfully to others and to develop a sense of empathy by learning to examine personally held world views and to see the world through the eyes of others who may appear different, come from a different culture, have different political stances, or come from a different socio-economic background are essential skills all students should develop.

This should not be an elective class but should be mandatory for all students. Continue to support this effort as you ignore the criticisms of small, fringe groups who have a vested interest in people not having these skills.

James Davis

Cedar Rapids