is Engulfed by Flames Residence of Lesbian Couple & Baby is Destroyed by Arson Women's University Lawsuit Ignites the Murderous Attempt |
Compiled by GayToday
"Whoever set this fire did not intend to simply frighten or intimidate this family. They meant to kill them. Two days after the case was filed, all of the plaintiffs received anonymous death threats in the mail that said, 'Die dyke.' "We are shocked, sad and angry," announced the ACLU Director. "On Monday, Carla told a room full of reporters and supporters that she was a plaintiff in the ACLU's lawsuit against the university, where she is a professor, because Adrianne needs to have health benefits in order to stay at home and care for their baby. 'I'm doing this to protect my family,' she said about the lawsuit on Monday.
Human Rights Campaign National Field Director Seth Kilbourn said: "We applaud the authorities for moving quickly to fully investigate this apparent hate crime. We hope law enforcement will arrest and prosecute these criminals to the fullest extent of the law and send a strong message that these terrorist tactics have no place in America." Kilbourn promised: "HRC will continue to closely monitor this case and is committed to working with local activists to make sure justice prevails. Our community will not be harassed or intimidated into silence." Reported hate crimes based on sexual orientation have more than tripled since the FBI began collecting statistics in 1991, and comprise 16.3 percent of all hate crimes for 2000 at 1,330. Hate crimes based on sexual orientation continue to make up the third highest category after race and religion, which make up 53.6 and 18.2 percent, respectively of the total, 8,152. Relief Fund: A special fund has been established to assist the couple with costs associated with the fire and subsequent security measures. Checks can be made payable to Relief Fund. Send to P.O. Box 775, Helena, Montana 59624. |