Recently, I read about a new campaign spreading across Delaware: Hate Has No Home Here. These words are showing up in windows and yards across the state – a bold and timely response to the real rise in bias, fear and division. And yet, while I deeply understand and support the intention behind this message, I want to offer a gentle challenge: What if we chose to say what we stand for, not just what we stand against?
Mother Teresa once said she would not attend an anti-war rally, but she would attend a pro-peace rally. Her words remind us that language matters. What we affirm can shape not only minds, but also movements. Psychology backs this up: We tend to tune out the word no. When we say, “Don’t cross the street,” children often only hear, “Cross the street.” When a food truck called No Tacos opened in my area, people were confused and frustrated – they saw the word tacos and expected tacos.
The same idea applies here. When our signs say hate, even if it’s in opposition, we still broadcast that word. What if, instead, our streets and windows reflected the future we want?
Let’s flood Delaware with kindness, not just resistance.
Let our signs say:
• Love Lives Here
• Kindness is Contagious
• Welcome, Neighbor
• You Belong
• Peace Begins at Home
• Hope Grows Here
• This is a Judgment-Free Zone
• Community Over Division
• All Are Welcome
• We Choose Love
• Safe Place for All
• Good Vibes Only (Delaware Edition)
• Together is Better
• Hearts Open, Doors Open.
This isn’t about avoiding hard conversations or turning away from injustice; it’s about rooting those conversations in shared humanity and aspiration. We can reject hate fiercely and clearly while still shining a brighter light on the values we believe in.
Delaware is a small state with a big heart. Let’s reflect that heart with messages that lift, heal and connect. Let’s teach the next generation not just what’s wrong with the world, but what’s possible.
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