Hatch Comments
In response to Sen. Orrin Hatch’s (R-Utah) comments on the Democrats being the party of homosexuals (Part I, Sept. 2):
If George Bush and the Republicans seriously mean more than just noise in pledging to bring about a kinder, more gentle society, one bona fide way to show their good intentions would be to lay off gratuitous and mean-spirited gay-bashing. The relentless attacks can only serve to undermine the dubious credibility of Republican claims to inclusiveness and compassion.
The Democrats have proven to be more up front in acknowledging the presence and support of gay Democrats. This, however, is far from catering as Hatch charged. Endorsement of gay rights by Democrats has never been universal or complete. What it has been is risky for many officeholders throughout the country; it leaves them vulnerable to attacks such as Hatch’s.
L. J. HERNANDEZ
Upland
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