This letter is in response to the articles covering the civil unrest occurring in Libya. As a citizen of and believer in democracy, I applaud the efforts of the Libyan people. Their efforts are similar to what is happening in Yemen, Algeria and Bahrain as well as the most recent revolutions in Egypt and Tunisia. Believe it or not, one thing that trumps capitalism and political correctness in the United States is the right to have one's voice heard. This is the foundation of which our democracy is built on. The Libyan people should continue to defy Moammar Gadhafi's powerful security forces so that Libyan democracy can begin to thrive. It is unfortunate that the United States compromised on one of its most fundamental values in order to protect its economic interests in the Middle East; something that happens all too often domestically as well. It is not the Libyan people that are attempting to seize power but rather it is those currently in power who have engaged in intimidation to prevent the will of the people from being heard. Why else would they stoop to such underhanded tactics to block various means of communication among the citizens of Libya? Why is the government in power utilizing such political strong-arm tactics as the use of violence? Moammar Gadhafi, you have had forty-two years to lead Libya and have failed them by your own choosing. The days of the despotic regime are finally coming to an end as it appears the desire for freedom will continue to sweep among the Arab nations. Accordingly, let the call go forth among all citizens of Libya that your brothers and sisters of democracy from all over the world are with you during every trial and tribulation you may encounter during this crisis. To the people of Libya, the trumpet of freedom beckons you to rise in protest and ensure your voice to preserve your sacred heritage, promote your children's future and obtain the blessings of liberty we all cherish. Moammar Gadhafi, let the people go! JOE BIALEK Cleveland, OH USA
