Opinion: Locking Out The Public Is Not Ok

Everyone knows if you ignore your Mother long enough she will show up where you work. If you tell her to go away, she will come back. In a similar fashion, concerned residents are increasingly showing up at Government meetings. Many are attending school board meetings, and some have already been elected to serve. They are universally troubled by a preoccupation with political agendas, and the rejection of any parental authority in their children’s health.

Not surprisingly, they are being shunned and vilified. Board meetings are suddenly closed to the public, as if those attending are like the mobs that rioted and burned Portland for endless months. Those in control are unaccustomed to being questioned and held accountable. Locking the doors is the wrong response.

A key issue for many has been the draconian requirement for generic masks in schools and other venues. Recently the CDC finally clarified that only an N-95 respirator is capable of capturing the virus. Wearing a mask for countless hours creates health issues, especially for developing children. The one-size-fits-all mandates must end.

In Clackamas County the Chair abruptly shut down a recent Board meeting, a sign that nerves are frayed everywhere. Residents who assembled in the room afterwards were described as “occupiers” in one publication. It’s ironic to see your neighbors vilified by the same media who gave the rioters a pass.

In early February the Legislature will conduct a short session. Expect the doors to be locked just as they were last year. We’ll be kept in the dark most of the time. Those wishing to testify will wait endless hours before being given a few seconds on Zoom.
Shutting out the public is taking place as a growing number of residents are showing up, expecting answers. Continuing to dismiss them will lead to a bigger battle; one that can’t be glossed over with public relations. What could be more important than addressing the concerns and questions from the public?

Editors note: New York’s mask mandate was just ruled “unconstitutional,” and declared it “null, void and unenforceable” according to a ruling by a NY State Supreme Court judge.