I am a supporter of the American Civil Liberty Union, and was asked to write a letter to the President regarding the release of the torture photos. Its not the greatest bit of writing and could have spent more time on it - but I did in about five minutes. But I did it at least.
Dear Mr. President
On your first full day in office, you issued an executive order that turned a new page on open government and emphasized the importance of transparency, stating, "A democracy requires accountability, and accountability requires transparency... In the face of doubt, openness prevails."
I am an American citizen currently living in Europe, in Vienna, Austria. I follow very closely everything that is going on in this world. Its a lot to follow - but your election has inspired me to do so.
Thats why I am writing and very concerned on the torture issue.
If we just put a band aid on top of this - covering it up - to stop the bleeding, it continues to be. The deep wound will always still be there. Wounds can only heal eventually if they are uncovered.
To a certain extent I can understand the argument that our troops would be in danger. But by now, everyone knows these photos exist. Certainly, isn´t it better to just expose to the world what everyone knows? I mean, isn´t about the "whole truth, and nothing but the truth"? Isnt that the oath each person takes when testifying?
America - the United States - can only re-gain its credibility, its moral standing by complete openness. That brings respect. And can only deflate any rallying hate-mongering attempts by the radicals of this world. Sure, you can never please all of the people all of the time. But you have to start by doing the right thing for yourself. In this case, its for our country.
How can we bring a better life to all the repressed of this world if we don´t fully uncover what we have done? How can we as Americans stand up straight if this is not pursued?
The only thing left, at the end of a day, is our moral integrity. That goes for each individual, that goes for every country. In our hearts, we know the truth.
Its all very complicated. I just wish it wouldn´t have happened. But it did.
Sincerly,
me
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