Letter: Double standard for hate crimes

Tuesday, Sept. 28, 1999 | 9:25 a.m.

For example, when a homosexual student was killed in Wyoming, our illustrious officials quickly labeled it a "hate crime."

And when a massacre of Jewish people happened in California, once again our elected leaders labeled it a hate crime.

But what happened to our vocal leaders, namely President Clinton and Attorney General Janet Reno, when a crazed man methodically killed innocent church goers at Wedgwood Baptist Church in Texas? Where was the outrage? Where was the cry about a "hate crime" against Christians as these teenagers, mothers, and students were killed?

And, when numerous Christians were killed at Columbine High School in Littleton, Colo., did anyone wonder why they were singled out? Did no one consider it odd that one of the gunmen asked "Does anyone here believe in God?" When Cassie Bernall responded, "Yes, I believe in Jesus ..." and was shot in the head for her response, why did no one consider that a hate crime?

Apparently, in this politically correct day, being a certain class of citizen means that your life is valued less. The answer is: A Christian is not on the list of preferred victims.

MARSHA NORTON