To the editor:

It is important to remember that loss is not just about grieving and emotional trauma but also about lifting up those around you and the opportunity to grow and learn.

In light of the recent tragedy in Minnesota and other tragedies across the nation, it is important to be reminded of the lessons we can learn while trying to pick ourselves back up after suffering such a brutal fall.

First off, while protesting against injustice, do not interfere with law enforcement. They are not the root cause of the problem and it will only invite more tragedy.

Secondly, do not vandalize or destroy your local area. The people of the community suffer the most when people protest in that fashion.

Third, let your voices be heard at the voting booth. Show up in person and ready to present voter ID if that’s what it takes to have a free and fair election.

The overwhelming feeling of loss in the last election, watching the new administration work tirelessly at their goals and the fact that there is no real leader for Democrats are stark reminders that there is a lot of work to be done.

I would like to remind my fellow Democrats, even though we may have lost the popular vote and every swing state, there is still hope for the future. Every loss is another opportunity for us to come together and remind the country that, even though we are the minority, we are still relevant.

Andrew Fitzgerald

Tupper Lake