Editor,

Thank you, Thomas Kosloske, for pointing out how over the ages some of mankind were unkind to womankind.

Clearly our nation’s Declaration of Independence signers were not bigoted as you suggest. If one reads the whole declaration, it is clear that it addresses national issues which of course include individuals of all ages and sexes.

Moreover, the preceding sentence in the Declaration itself indicates the national scope and purpose of its ensuing commentary.

More than once the text uses the word to which you objected being inserted — mankind, as it speaks out in defense of “our people” and “all ages, sexes and conditions.”

Frontier times in 1776 were times when chivalry was an important necessity and men defended their objects of love, family and children of “all ages, sexes and conditions.”

Since Adam and Eve, men have been the primary providers and protectors of family, community and nations.

Equally historically, women have primarily appreciated that to the extent that this became a norm and designated division of responsibilities that has endured through the ages. I see nothing in the entire Declaration of Independence that either deviates from that expectation or promotes bigotry toward women.

Times have changed. Civilization marches on. We have electric lights, flush toilets, more horses under hoods than in barns and the lights of education shine more brightly than ever.

Expectations based on historic norms don’t change overnight. Gravity still makes apples fall down.

Until apples fall up, some will probably have a male preference for leadership. That seems understandable to me rather than being an indictment for not having come farther in unisexuality since 1776.

It’s a learning curve more than evil bigotry. Vive le difference!

The belief that the creator endowed all of mankind with undeniable rights to life, liberty and happiness is and was wholesomely American.

Al Williams

Oak Harbor