PEORIA -- It's been nearly a month since a Nov. 27 attack against two men at a Peoria night club. Witnesses have said this was a hate crime against men thought to be gay, but the Peoria County sheriff's office and State's Attorney apparently have not investigated this aspect of the crime.
Here's a letter from PEER -- People Entitled to Equal Rights-- that outlines what happened.
The Peoria Journal Star has refused to publish this letter, citing fears of liability, a PEER member said.
At a recent League of Women Voters candidate meeting, sheriff Mike McCoy, who is running for reelection on the Republican ticket, was asked about this incident, but blew off the question.
He needs to be asked about this again until some answers are forthcoming.
If this was a hate crime, as alleged, the public needs to know. Consider what would have occurred if this had been a racist crime delivered with hate remarks against African-Americans! There would be community discussion, raising awareness and sensitivity, as is taking place now in Canton, where the police chief is alleged have made racist remarks -- words only, without any crime.
But hate words often lead to crime. Remember Matthew Shepherd? Let's hope this incident does not sink without a trace.
-- Elaine Hopkins
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