Letters to the editor April 15

Tax Day

Today is Tax Day — a time when millions of hardworking Montanans have filed their returns, doing our part to support the programs and services that make our country function. 

As a home caregiver, I’m proud to contribute. But as I look around at the massive amount of wealth being accumulated in this country while the Montanans I care for struggle, I can’t help but ask: Does our tax system, and the work it pays for, really reflect our values? 

Every day, I help people live independently and with dignity in their homes. That work is largely made possible by Medicaid, which covers essential services that many folks can’t afford otherwise. These aren’t luxuries — they’re basics, like getting out of bed safely, preparing meals and taking medications correctly.

But year after year, we hear the same proposals: cut Medicaid and hand out more tax breaks to the ultra-wealthy. On Tax Day, that hits especially hard. Caregivers like me aren’t asking for special treatment — we’re just asking that the people we serve aren’t forgotten while the richest few get even richer.

If we can afford to give billionaires another tax break, we can afford to make sure grandma gets her insulin, or that a disabled neighbor has someone to help them safely shower.

This Tax Day, I hope our leaders remember who’s really carrying the load — and start investing in the care, dignity, and basic needs of everyday Montanans.

— Celeste Thompson, Missoula

Offer compassion

I am a Christian and an American. Living into both of these identities has been more difficult since January.  

The Bible gives me guidance as I pray for understanding of current events. In Matthew 22:39, Jesus answers a question by saying “Love your neighbor as you love yourself.” In Luke 10:29, Jesus asks us “Who is my neighbor?” These teachings help me see that I cannot remain silent.

Seeking justice and mercy for all my neighbors can only be done through actions. My prayer is for Americans to join together to offer mercy, compassion and justice to all our neighbors. This call to action requires each of us to research the facts, ask for guidance as we pray and join together to act with compassion, to seek justice and reveal the values that America holds to be true.

Will I be the next person to be detained by hooded government agents for speaking out? Who will stand for me when that happens?

— Deborah Sapp, Kalispell