Letter to the Editor: Open Letter to U.S. Rep. Mike Gallagher

I am so, so sorry that you were offended by the National Railroad Museum’s acceptance of the Satanic Temple’s entry in their Festival of Trees. It is heartening, however, that we have public officials like yourself to alert us of these un-Christian groups, spreading their message, “to encourage benevolence and empathy, reject tyrannical authority, advocate practical common sense, oppose injustice and undertake noble pursuits.” Oh my! No wonder you’re upset at this “woke ideology or offensive upside-down cultural propaganda” – your words! These are values your party’s leader would never accept.

Yes, I can understand how Christians might be upset over this affront to the true meaning of Christmas, Santa Claus, parties, presents, overindulgence and, oh yeah, the birth of the baby Jesus. However, I have full confidence that these traditions will continue, in spite of the Satanic Temple Festival tree. 

To be clear, I am in no way advocating the Satanic Temple or its actions. They may be well intended, but my sense is that it’s one of those fringe elements that lurks in the shadows, dealing in shock and schlock. They only come out when an event and coverage such as this elevates them to the national stage. To this end, you and Fox News are serving them well. 

Semper Fi!

Tom Soik

Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin