They Feel They’ve Been Singled Out

Re Bettina Boxall’s article “Neighbors Tackle Gay Cruising” (Aug. 27): I am a resident of this neighborhood who greatly objects to the anti-cruising/harassment efforts of homophobic members of the community.

I am angry and upset every time I see that anti-cruising sign. It invalidates everything that gay people have fought for over the years.

This is indeed a civil rights issue. When the vigilantes got busy, the police began to harass bars, patrons and businesses in the neighborhood.

BILL KAISER

Los Angeles

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Although the scene discussed in the excellent article by Bettina Boxall isn’t mine, I recognize discrimination when it’s publicized.

Only if LAPD’s records can corroborate that their lewd conduct arrests approximately reflect the ratios of the gay and straight populations at large can they dismiss allegations of selective enforcement of the misdemeanor.

Just because same-sex coupling in public provokes more people to complain does not make it any more illegal than men and women engaging in that activity.

JOHN HEGLIN

Los Angeles

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I enjoyed the article on gay cruising in the Silver Lake area.

I just don’t understand why these boys don’t get married and settle down . . . oops, I forgot. That is against the law, isn’t it?

DON FOLEY

Los Angeles