Measure LV: League of Women Voters Calls for Civil Discourse on Contentious Measure

Dear Editor,

Over the last few weeks, we have noticed a great number of guest columns and letters to the editor regarding the controversial Santa Monica Measure LV. There are very strong opinions on both sides of the issue and we want to kindly remind your readers that regardless of what voters decide on November 8th, we'll still be part of the same community on November 9th.

The proliferation of community involvement and opinions surrounding the future of Santa Monica is a wonderful thing. Democracy works best when those who disagree on issues can come together, compromise, and move forward. There was a letter published in the Santa Monica Daily Press recently that called for all of us to "Choose Civility" and we would like to build on that sentiment. We would like to take it one step further and encourage everyone to practice Civil Discourse.

What is Civil Discourse? It is being respectful to those who have different opinions than your own. It is refraining from name-calling or attacking someone's character. Civil Discourse means avoiding antagonism when engaging in a discussion with someone you disagree with (or even someone you agree with). It means focusing on the issues before us and understanding that others may not share the same life-experiences.

When we practice civility and Civil Discourse, we may even inspire more Santa Monicans to become involved in our city. Too many currently shy away from sharing their opinions for fear of hostility from anyone who may disagree with them.

Civil Discourse may be simple, but it's not always easy. It takes conscious effort and practice. Please try to be kind to each other-and remember we'll still be neighbors after November 8th.

Sincerely,

Natalya Zernitskaya and Karen Carrey

League of Women Voters of Santa Monica