The assasination of American right-wing influencer Charlie Kirk rocked the world and the tsunami of posts reached Philippine shores.
I did not know the guy and news of his death made me watch his posts. I particularly align with his stance on pro-life and traditional family values. I can’t meddle in the American issues in which he is also deeply steeped since I am not immersed in their culture and politics, but overall I find him a logical and powerful debator.
His death was seen by many as an attack on free speech. Opposing views should not lead to political violence. Violence is never an answer to political debate. I was horrified when people, even young Filipinos some of whom I know and friends with, celebrate and laugh at Charlie’s untimely demise.
The death of another is never a reason to celebrate nor mock nor say “he deserved it.” It is simply inhuman and that is what made me sad. Online discussions can sometimes become so toxic it strips away our humanity like when we are hiding behind anonimity and online handles.
Even if we have defeated and brought to end an evil person, his death in the eyes of those who truly love humanity, is bittersweet. It is sweet for whatever sense of justice is derived from the perspective of those who suffered injustice, but bitter for death is always bitter. The death of a human being, no matter how evil or wrong, is always the defeat of life. It is not for celebrating.
A few days after the assasination, there were several news from the US on educators, some in prestigious schools, being fired or disciplined. Sadly these educators were imprudent enough to celebrate the assasination or gave undue comments. Is inhumanity already part of school culture today?
I pray that despite our differences, our common love for life and for humanity allow us to bridge divisions, and to always stand in solidarity with one another. We all are humans and we all live in the same planet. Politics should make us civic and civil, not inhuman.
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