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Ryan Fecteau is the speaker of the Maine House of Representatives.
We have been reminded this week of the importance of respecting the privacy of Maine kids, and the value in treating people of all ages with kindness and decency.
I think we can all agree that our kids deserve better than to be used as political fodder for internet bullies. It isn’t just cruel or mean-spirited to take advantage of a minor in this way. It can also be downright dangerous for the young person involved. It can impact their health and their safety, at school, and in their communities.
For generations, there has been a tradition in politics of not using children — even the children of presidents — to score political points, and with good reason. Kids shouldn’t have to worry about a politician sharing images of them online without their consent — or making cruel remarks about them. They should be able to focus on being kids.
It’s not often I find myself in agreement with the executive director of the Maine GOP, but he was right when he appeared on WGAN Radio and said: “I don’t think we need to be putting [young people] at the center of anything and making you the focal point for an entire state or nation. I just encourage everybody, have the debate, but let’s keep it above board and be kind, because we don’t know what other people are going through.”
To young people who are members of the LGBTQ+ community, know that I see you and I stand with you. And there are many other leaders in the Legislature who stand with you, too.
All young Mainers should know that I will continue to stand up to elected officials who violate the privacy of youth for cheap political stunts. After the events of this week, I ask all my legislative colleagues to recommit to keeping kids out of the political fray. They deserve better. There is a time and place for policy debates. That time and place will never be a social media post attacking a student. Full stop.
It’s been said time and time again: Love always wins. And it does. I know Mainers will make sure all students feel valued whether in the classroom, at home, or when playing sports. The best way to achieve fairness and equity is by coming together to solve differences of opinion. I know that’s what our communities will do. That’s the Maine way.