To The Editor:

I grew up believing America was the good conscience of the world — the angel on the shoulder of those who would say to dictators, racists, imperialists, “There is a better way — watch us.”

Where is that angel now? Swatted away by the head of this country. Instead, it seems that a nefarious voice shouts in the ears of national leadership and millions of citizens choose to forget and forgive, to accept “alternate facts” about events that turn the stomachs of millions of other citizens determined not to let the angel of Democracy die.

America has been a good force in the world for decades. If we are to celebrate our 250th anniversary this year of independence from a monarchy and taxation without representation, those who believe in the strength of the Constitution must not allow this regime of cruelty and greed to overcome the beauty of our country and all of the people who make this country beautiful.

Let’s not embarrass the Statue of Liberty as we move through this new year. Let’s not allow the rule of law to be ignored. Let’s not rely on the “morality” of a leader who has been found guilty of fraud; sexual assault; and who epitomizes nearly all of the Seven Deadly Sins (Pride, Greed, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Sloth) to turn America into a global bully dug into the past and belligerently propelled into an uncertain future.

There is no time like the present to continue to protest, to exercise the right to vote, to write and call representatives, to stand up and speak out — freely and without fear — for what is truly right.

May this new year be one of eyes wide open and an ear to the truth.

Nancy K. Crevier

Newtown