I never thought that I would say this, but I am ashamed of my fellow Idahoans.

In a time when we should be coming together, we are fraying at the seams.

I’m horrified at how many of our leaders, including the likes of a state representative, a local pastor and the Bonner County Sheriff are sowing discontent and rallying the troops against the stay-at-home order that is there to keep us safe. Not only is this dangerous in a health crisis situation, the very fact that our own leaders can’t seem to unify themselves to make sure we, the people who rely on them, are safe — I can’t fathom trusting them on any level after this.

As a grocery store worker, I see every day the panic people are feeling, as well as those who still think “it’s just like the flu” — an ignorance I pray will not cost them their loved ones. I go to work in a near panic attack every day for fear that I may get it, or worse, pass it to one of my loved ones.

To those who are dissenting: Shame on you. You are putting everyone in more risk because of your supposed “right” to assemble; in fact, you are taking away my right and that of so many others to feel safe in their own communities. I hope for your sake you never have to feel the weight of knowing you could have done some good instead of this foolishness.

REBEKAH GANN

Coeur d’Alene