I would have made sure
In response to the woman who so rudely approached me at the theater Saturday night, smiling, while your words conveyed a contrary message, it is sad that you find the happy babbles of a child disruptive. Had my daughter been crying, I would have removed her immediately. Was the film in English and required listening, I would have removed her. However (and I may be wrong, but I bet that my assumption is correct), I doubt you understand Tibetan, and therefore, it was not necessary for you to listen carefully to the words, and you were probably reading the subtitles. If you happen to be a parent, I feel sorry for your children, whom you obviously think should be left at home and not exposed to cultural events, which, as you say, "are for adults."
Many people say that Juneau is a wonderful place to raise a child. I disagree. Maybe you are unaware that may establishments are not child-friendly because you don't have children, or maybe you have children, but as you advised me is proper, you leave your children at home. Regardless, numerous establishments in Juneau do not provide diaper-changing stations or child-sized facilities on their premises. At the Wharf Mall, one needs to ask for a key to open the handicapped accessible restroom, which contains a diaper changing station, but none of the businesses own the key!
Compare Juneau to some of our European neighbors, or even some places in the lower 48. Many public places have family restrooms with changing tables and miniature toilets for young children. It is time that we begin thinking of our children as people who deserve equal treatment and public facilities that fit their needs. It is people who hold viewpoints like yours who disregard the young people in our society, who make children feel unwelcome in their own community. If we treat our children as if we don't want them around, then they will feel unworthy and unwanted. Our children are not second-class citizens. They deserve to be with their parents, other adults, and children at community events, and there should be facilities provided for children in all public places. If I could do it over again, instead of leaving following your remark, I would have made sure that my baby was upset, screaming, and I would have sat directly behind you during the whole film so that she could pull your hair.
Vita Wilson
Juneau