Threats of violence never an answer

North Idaho College has fielded what have been described as violent, threatening messages since it came to light that one of its instructors allegedly posted negative, disrespectful comments about Charlie Kirk after he was shot and killed last week. Those messages put NIC staff on edge, some even fearful for their safety, and prompted an increase in security. 

While we certainly oppose hurtful remarks about Charlie Kirk after his death, and see them as cowardly and mean, we also oppose threats of violence toward NIC employees or toward anyone. Hard to believe we’re still repeating this, but violence is not a solution to anything. Threats of violence are not a solution to anything. They will only escalate what is already a tense situation. Threats only force the other side to dig in even deeper.

If an NIC instructor posted comments on social media about Charlie Kirk that were hateful, celebrating his assassination, then NIC administrators will address it. We trust they will deal with it in an appropriate manner. NIC's communications officials have been fair in providing The Press with what information they can on this matter. We appreciate their efforts on this sensitive issue when some people are threatening payback.

The last thing Charlie Kirk would have wanted was someone seeking revenge for his death or going after those who disagreed with his conservative Christian views. What he would have wanted was for people to have respectful dialogue, to debate their points, to listen and to be knowledgeable about the subject at hand. Know what you are talking about. That is what he did. You could disagree with Charlie Kirk, but you better be prepared to defend your position. Sadly, at least one person so strongly disliked what Charlie Kirk said and stood for that he killed him. 

And once again, we ask for respect and common courtesy. You can stand for what you believe without threatening those with a different view. 

Some have contacted The Press demanding to know why we have not named this NIC instructor. His comments and name were right there on Facebook, a caller said, refuting The Press argument that we are trying to verify information regarding the instructor’s identification. The caller seemed to believe we were trying to shield the instructor. We are not. 

While we believe people are accountable for what they do and say, we will not publish the name of this instructor simply because people want him called out publicly. Judging by some of the comments left at NIC, that could put him in danger. 

We don't want that. No one does. Or at least, no one should.