To the editor:

Why is it that the word “woke” has been so controversial lately? Woke derives from the word “wake” and the dictionary’s definition is “to be awake, to come out of sleep or a state like or suggestive of sleep, as a stupor, trance, etc.; awake (often with up). To become alert (to a realization, possibility, etc.) and to become active.”

Why would anyone want to go through life and not be awake? Using the word “woke” as a slur is another way of dividing us as Americans. We should not close our eyes and pretend that being awake is somehow unpatriotic.

“Progressive” is another word that has been vilified recently. This word is derived from “progress.” The definition is “moving forward or onward or advance toward perfection, or to a higher or better state of improvement.” Hindering progress leads to a stagnation of ideas. Our country has proven that with progress and vigilance (aka woke) we have been able to endure for nearly 250 years.

Let us not become hateful of one another because certain words are manipulated in order to separate us from our goal of a more perfect union, which is America’s goal.

Kae Luppens

Lemay