Dear editor:

Labels could be the culprit. They are certainly divisive.

Recent letters to the editor slamming the grassroots organization Wyoming Rising labeled it leftist, liberal and progressive, as if that were a crime and described it as a sort of patsy for the Democratic Party.

It is not. Wyoming Rising is a growing group of people across the political spectrum who share similar concerns about the direction some of our country’s leaders seem to be taking. Wyoming Rising advocates for civil liberties, quality public education, affordable health care, protection of the environment and participation in government. Some members are conservative on some issues and more liberal on others. Whatever our political differences, we are united in our desire to protect and strengthen democracy during these turbulent times.

Many of Wyoming Rising’s members are registered Republicans, and we all know why. Unfortunately, many in our country let divisiveness obstruct civil discourse. Wyoming Rising allows people to share concerns and work out differences in a rational setting without fear of being labeled this or that.

Wyoming Rising welcomes anyone, regardless of party affiliation, who wants to help save our democracy. A membership fee covers organizational expenses.

Edie Phillips

Cody