This letter is in response to recent events at our local YMCA, and the subsequent fear-mongering and misinformation campaign that is occurring thanks to a few folks who think someone else’s sexual identity is any of their business. I get it that Ms. Jaman was put into a potentially uncomfortable situation at the YMCA. It could have ended there with an apology to the employee, who was thoroughly vetted before being hired, but with the help of her friend Ms. Sousa and others, the situation seems to be escalating, not resolving. 

If we are to believe the eyewitness account of recent letter-writer Andrea Hegland, a group of innocent, unarmed, trans-phobic demonstrators were assaulted by a mob of ninja-clad perverts at City Hall, while the local police force turned a blind eye to the mayhem. When the “Proud Boys” and their local pals rolled through town last year to confront people on Sims Way, the police were also there, but hands-off as well. That is what they are supposed to do in these situations. 

Lastly, for Ms. Jaman to use a sleazy miscreant like Tucker Carlson to further their cause is highly disappointing. A person’s sexual identity is as much of a choice as someone’s religion or political affiliation. 

As a result of this escalation, we are also now on the radar of far-right conspiracy theorist Robert Zerfing, a Vancouver, Washington resident who is planning a demonstration here on Sept. 3. A little research on Mr. Zerfing uncovers a history of harassing activists while closely associating with “Proud Boys.”

Rather than continue to damage our community with their divisiveness, Ms. Sousa, Ms. Jaman, and friends need to give the self-righteous behavior a rest and perhaps help find some constructive solutions to the situation.

David Conklin
PORT TOWNSEND