Urge leaders to protect all people
As published in the Bellingham Herald on Gift of Microscope will help Community
As published in the Bellingham Herald on September 20th, 1998

Krystal Way, James Byrd Jr. and Mathew Shepard (Oct. 13 Herald) were diverse individuals who shared a common fate.

Krystal was a mother of two children and a college student. She was killed by her husband in a fit of rage on our community college campus.

James was a disabled father of three. He was allegedly killed because he was black.

Mathew was a gay University of Wyoming student. He was beaten to death allegedly, in part, because of his sexual orientation.

Whether violence comes through domestic disputes, racial hatred or sexual orientation, the results are often brutal. The fear generated by these attacks goes beyond the victims and affects their respective communities.

Our community, religious and political leaders need to join with our neighbors in denounccing such violence. Our newly elected and re-elected representatives need to affirm their commitment to non-violence.

Please urge your elected officials to local, state and national offices to pass legislation that will ensure the lives and safety of all our people.
Sheila L Richardson
Bellingham