Joe Edge’s recent column about changes in the electorate due to growth in Columbia County has me wondering if he would prefer for the area to have trailers with MAGA flags in hanging off the side instead of apartment buildings with barbecue grills out front.
I suspect he wants the MAGA flags, and maybe even the barbecue grills. What he doesn’t want is population growth that would add anyone who thinks differently than he does.
The notion that Columbia County exists independently from its surrounding metropolitan areas is increasingly outdated. The demographic landscape is shifting, with Augusta embodying a rich tapestry of cultures and backgrounds that contribute to its vibrancy. As the lines between cities blur and the population continues to diversify, residents of Columbia County must recognize the benefits of inclusiveness. This includes understanding that individuals and families seeking affordable housing options, such as apartment living, should not be met with skepticism or prejudice based solely on race or socioeconomic status.
When communities make assumptions about the types of people who might be attracted to apartment living, they risk engaging in harmful rhetoric that can perpetuate stereotypes and create divisions. As discussions about development and housing intensify, it is crucial for the community to approach these issues with an open mind. The fear that new residents may be “undesirable” often leads to negative narratives that can inadvertently contribute to racial profiling. Instead, fostering an environment of acceptance and understanding will allow Columbia County growth plus will allow the community to benefit from the diverse perspectives and experiences new residents bring.
Furthermore, the idea of equality — rooted in the belief that all individuals should be treated equally — remains paramount. The history of systemic discrimination and segregation serves as a reminder that societal progress relies on active engagement and the dismantling of prejudiced attitudes. It is essential to create spaces where individuals are judged based on their character and contributions, rather than preconceived notions tied to their background. Housing choices should reflect economic realities rather than social biases, highlighting that economic status, rather than race, should dictate the right to reside in any given neighborhood.
Let me say this – finally Columbia County stands at an opportunity for meaningful change —a n opportunity to celebrate diversity rather than shy away from it. The journey towards inclusiveness requires collective effort, open dialogue, and a commitment to ensuring that EVERYONE feels welcome, regardless of their background and race. As the county moves forward, it is imperative that residents and leaders alike prioritize unity and understanding, fostering a community where everyone has the chance to thrive. By acknowledging the larger metropolitan context of Augusta and embracing the inherent value of inclusiveness, Columbia County and especially their more “conservative” residents can evolve into a dynamic and harmonious community for all its residents.
The disparities in how Columbia County approaches different forms of housing raise important questions about priorities and values within the community. Let’s put it like this – the acceptance of a trailer adorned with a MAGA flag, juxtaposed against the hesitance to embrace an apartment complex that allows barbecue grills, highlights the need for more consistent and equitable standards in housing development. It signifies a reluctance to recognize the potential benefits of diverse living arrangements and the inclusive communities they can foster. Moving forward, it is essential for Columbia County and more importantly their Trump loving residents – to critically assess these viewpoints, ensuring that policies and attitudes reflect a commitment to inclusiveness and the understanding that vibrant communities are built on the richness of diversity—not the limitations of preconceived notions.
So take that Joe Edge and stick it in your pipe.
Michael Meyers is a featured columnist for The Augusta Press and Publisher/CEO of The Metro Courier Newspaper.
Mike and Joe are good friends.
