Dear Editor:
In response to Senator Grassley’s declaration that the AIG executives who received bonuses should either resign or commit suicide, I believe an apology is in order. He claims that people should recognize his comment as “rhetoric” and not an actual suggestion that AIG executives should complete suicide. He was just trying to prove a point that the executives should show “remorsefulness” and “contrition” for accepting bonuses with the federal bailout money. Senator Grassley ought to show “remorsefulness” and “contrition” for his thoughtless comment. Suggesting that someone kill himself or herself cannot be dismissed as rhetoric. What is Senator Grassley going to do if one of the executives actually does complete suicide?
The feelings of betrayal and, subsequently, anger toward AIG executives are understandable. However, no actions, not matter how despicable they are, justify the suggested use of violence, and no matter how “rhetorical” the comment is. Money is not so important that it outweighs the value of any human’s life, nor should it ever be suggested as such. Every suicide is a tragedy, not an act of honor. When someone loses a loved one to suicide, his or her life is turned on its axis. It is not a subject that can be used so casually as in rhetoric.
As a senator, and a representative of the people of the United States of America, Senator Grassley ought not to have said those things. An apology is in order for his rash comments and treating such a heavy topic so lightly.
Sincerely,
Brittany Schumann
Suicide Prevention Coordinator
Mental Health America of Licking County
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