What is wokeness, and what is weakness?

A recent Facebook posting by Rep. Ashley Hinson said, “Wokeness is Weakness.” It was disappointing in several ways, but first I wonder if she understood what “wokeness” is. According to the dictionary, the definition of wokeness is “having or marked by an active awareness of systemic injustices and prejudices, especially those involving the treatment of ethnic, racial, or sexual minorities.”

Is it truly a weakness to be aware of how some people in our country are being mistreated? It appears she doesn’t want to either recognize that injustices occur, or she is simply siding with those that don’t care.

It has been my experience that we honor and respect those individuals who stand up for people in need or suffering from injustice or prejudice. An integral part of the American ideal is having empathy for our fellow citizens, to try and put ourselves in their shoes, and to treat them as we would like to be treated.

A blanket statement like “Wokeness is Weakness” is a gibe made for political gain, with no attempt to discuss or understand. I don’t agree that “wokeness is weakness”, and I don’t believe most Iowans do either.

We expect more from our leaders and elected officials. This comment appeals to a darker side of our better selves that I believe most people reject. It’s easy to spout political attacks. Rep. Hinson, do better. Be better. Let’s work together with cooperation and respect. We need it and we deserve it.

Bret Nilles

Marion