THE EDITOR, Madam:

Some of the most racist, bigoted, homophobic, and sexist remarks and jokes are not confined to the dark corners of society, but are shared openly among good, decent Americans at the dinner table. This isn’t uncommon; all people carry prejudices, and these biases often seem harmless in private. The problem arises when these prejudices seep into public discourse, subtly or overtly, and influence public policy and action.

Consider the ‘unwritten constitution’: No gays, no Jews, no blacks for president. While you won’t find these rules codified in any government textbook, the sentiment has shaped the country’s history and continues to linger in its subconscious. Even Government 101 could teach you how these implicit biases persist.

Ironically, the prejudices we denounce often mirror our own contradictions. You might fervently support school integration, but when families from different backgrounds begin moving into your neighbourhood, people (regardless of race or ethnicity – Asian, black, Latino, or white) – often flee to communities with higher socio-economic status. You might champion women’s rights, but hesitate when it comes to supporting a female president or ratifying the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA). After more than 100 years, the ERA remains unratified, and after 235 years, the US has yet to elect a woman president.

But let’s be clear – the unwritten constitution doesn’t explicitly ban women. Which man would openly admit to such a bias in today’s world, knowing he would be confronted with locked boxes? Yet, actions speak louder than words. The paradox is striking: American women alone have the voting power to elect a president, but they have yet to elect either a white or black woman. Instead, they elected a black man, Barack Obama.

As we reflect on these contradictions, consider the factors shaping the presidency. Americans consistently demand leaders who are fit, healthy, trustworthy, and sociable. Hillary Clinton faced the trust deficit. Joe Biden’s health raised concerns. But what held back Kamala Harris?

As finger-pointing and research continue, one thing is clear: implicit biases, ingrained prejudices, and societal paradoxes remain deeply embedded in the American psyche. Until confronted openly and honestly, these undercurrents will continue shaping our history and future. Note: The unwritten constitution informed Harris’ stumbling block.

Finally, do not try to fool the American people. Though it is said that they are anti-intellectual, they are pragmatic people who are not into pussyfooting on getting things done; you calling them illiterate has perilous implication. Note, they did not call for presidential candidates to be highly educated.

RUPERT GREEN