Eugene and Springfield exist in a strange sort of brotherhood. On the one hand, the two cities, their economies and social lives, are intricately intertwined. Residents of each town work in the other; many friends and relatives straddle the natural river boundary.
On the other hand, a somewhat unfriendly sibling rivalry has always been a part of the relationship. The battle over which city would get the new federal courthouse was not particularly amicable, at least in the media and conversations around town. And this rivalry extends to social practices, lifestyles and customs.
But times change. And it’s about time that the rancor of the sibling rivalry also become extinct.
Let’s face it; the inter-city rivalry isn’t always pleasant. Visit a local bar or coffee shop, and one can overhear nasty jokes aimed at Springfielders always focused on the notion that they are rednecks, or that they’re drug users, or some other crass, over-generalized nonsense. In Springfield, comments and jokes about the general elitism and smugness of Eugeneans is common. But one can also overhear sexist or racist or homophobic jokes in bars; that doesn’t mean they’re acceptable.
Last week, the Emerald editorial board wrote about the stereotypes and attitudes relating to Springfield. We did not say they were true we simply pointed out that these ideas are often associated with Springfield. We did so in the context of a discussion about a different issue, and we paid the stereotypes little attention.
We were remiss, however, in pointing out that such generalizations not only aren’t true they’re unfair and rude. People of every stripe live in both cities; people are generally accepted, despite their differences, in both cities. This is an important part of the livability of the region, and it should be celebrated.
It’s time for the sibling rivalry to end. Both towns have grown into adults, and at a certain point in adulthood, it’s wise to make peace with one’s relatives and move on. Eugeneans and Springfielders should fulfill the values that make both communities such great places to live, and respect each other’s strengths and weaknesses. Let’s let it continue from here.
Neighboring cities should make peace
Daily Emerald
October 10, 2001
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