Op-ed oversimplifies cultural categorizations

I would, however, also like to offer a counterpoint: that our young people do not divide evenly into two convenient categories, and in large part they are working hard to secure a productive future for themselves, regardless of their beard length.

I too work with young Vermonters, many of whom do not come from families of extravagant means. Can they gut a deer? Hell yes, and no doubt exquisitely. Do they want a better, more stable future for themselves and their families? To repeat: Hell yes.

To discuss driving a truck and shooting targets as being evidence that the driver and shooter therefore cannot possibly have an aptitude for higher education or even “social skills” is classism of the worst order. That I have known humanities majors with “backwoodsman attire” must come as a real shock.

Denny’s piece was heartfelt and the culture conflict he cites is real. I do hope that someday he has the pleasure of expanding his views by meeting the type of young Vermonter whom I so value: the kind who hunts and reads, shoots and recycles, wears camo and cares about the future.

Rob Schulze

Elmore