I want to extend my appreciation to Chief Louis M. Dekmar and the people of LaGrange for taking your courageous step in apologizing for the lynching of Austin Callaway.

I know nothing more about the incident than what I have read in the news article, but what I do know is that it takes magnanimity to apologize. Often people think that an apology is only an admission of wrong doing. I opine that, although that is an aspect of an apology, the more important aspect is the “I am sorry” about the incident.

We often hear that children need not apology for their parent’s misdeeds, or that a community is not responsible for the misdeeds of generations past. It is never too late to apologize.

An apology is often considered a sign of weakness. To the contrary, it is a manifestation of strength and integrity. In this apology, the people of LaGrange have given all of us a tremendous example of the strength, character, and love that is needed at any time, and is especially important during the current period of societal divisiveness and turmoil. Thank you Chief Dekmar and folks of LaGrange.

Scott Kuhle

Pullman, Wash.