Christian God loves all people
I’ve never written a letter to the editor before, but having known Fred Kinder since we both worked in the mall some 30 years or so ago, after seeing him on Sunday’s front page I just feel compelled. He surely doesn’t need my support, as his actions toward people in general and his community as a whole speak for themselves. Fred is a fine person, as I’m sure his husband Ralph is as well. The Columbus community would be far less without the contributions of these two. Who would deny service to them?
I am not gay, but as a Christian, I feel somewhat certain assuring those in the LGBT community that we don’t all support this ridiculous law. Once again, Mississippi is the laughing stock of the Country! The God I serves loves all people. I would not like to be the person to blatantly hate, discriminate or judge a child of God, and then use God’s name to support my actions. Isn’t that what ISIS does?
But I have a solution for all on both sides of the issue. I would ask the Dispatch to give all business owners one week to submit their businesses name so that a list might be published on the front page for the readership of your paper. This way, those businesses need not fear those dollars coming in from those that do not support this law, or might even be gay. And at least this way, gays can know up front where their dollars are not welcomed and avoid the discrimination at your front door, while non-supporters of the law can make an informed choice where they choose to eat or buy services.
So c’mon now supporters of HB1523 — I challenge all banks, eateries, clothing stores, all you merchants from the smallest to the largest within the readership area. This is your chance! Say it publicly. Which of you do not want the business of those that oppose this law? Let the LGBT community know you don’t appreciate their spendable income. I’m sure many of us would stay away from your business in huge numbers to make your day better. However, I would almost bet these business owners prefer to keep their feelings in the closet. And let’s face it — it takes courage to come out of the closet!
Gary Foster, Millport, Ala. (formerly of Columbus)
The Dispatch Editorial Board is made up of publisher Peter Imes, columnist Slim Smith, managing editor Zack Plair and senior newsroom staff.
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