The May 15 editorial, "Okinawans deserve better" — on the 40th anniversary of Okinawa's return to Japanese rule — describes accurately the opinions of most Okinawans as indicated by polls of Mainichi/Ryukyu Shimpo and Asahi/Okinawa Times.

These opinions show the current "political culture" of Okinawan people reflecting their historical knowledge of discrimination and sacrifice imposed upon them from without, strong antiwar sentiments, and their cherished value of striving for equality.

Okinawans do deserve better, and this editorial deserves the attention of all Japanese and U.S. policymakers so that their renewed understanding and revised policies, in the long run, restore Okinawan people's trust in both governments.

The opinions expressed in this letter to the editor are the writer's own and do not necessarily reflect the policies of The Japan Times.

mikio higa