Building machines of war also threatens the sanctity of human life

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TO THE EDITOR:

I appreciated your editorial on the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, including the comments of Eisenhower and Douglas. Today, we have the very sorrowful reality of the new class of Columbia Nuclear Submarines being manufactured here in Rhode Island at Electric Boat. For years America has possessed an arsenal large enough to blow up the world numbers of times, yet that is not enough for the powers that be. Many Rhode Islanders must make the difficult choice between feeding their families or work on these vehicles of mass destruction. All kinds of rationalizing can occur as to why these weapons are necessary.
Also, as we look at the culture of Rhode Island we don’t see a respect for the sanctity of human life, but laws facilitating abortion at all stages of development. In public discourse on matters of serious, time-honored, family, community and spiritual concern, we experience a stifling of free expression and an atmosphere of intolerance. I would like to recommend the reading of “A Song for Nagasaki,” about Dr. Takashi Naagai, a pioneer professor of radiology who endured the bombing of Nagasaki, yet inspired others to peace and faith. Second, ask the questions: What does a culture of death look like? Where do we find it? Who facilitates it?

Louise Barba, Harrisville