Office of Governor Gary Locke
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - March 30, 2004
Contact:  Governor's Communications Office, 360-902-4136

Gov. Gary Locke Supports Cross-Burning Victim, Urges Tolerance

MARYSVILLE – March 30, 2004 – Gov. Gary Locke today released the following statement after meeting with Pastor Jason Martin, a black minister who woke early Wednesday last week to find a cross burning in his front yard:

“Our hearts go out to Pastor Martin and his family. We are profoundly humbled by Pastor Martin’s shining example of forgiveness, dignity and compassionate wisdom. I urge all citizens across our state to join in supporting Pastor Martin and his family, and to use this ugly episode to teach our children about civil rights and the evils of racism.

“I am very proud of and deeply moved by the compassion and care the community has shown. The people of this community have resoundingly deplored this act and affirmed that which is best in us all – love, understanding and harmony.

“A hate crime against one is a hate crime against us all. We must stand together against such crimes – and against the lingering evil and injustice such crimes reflect and perpetuate.

“I will continue in my efforts to raise public awareness about the need for understanding and tolerance. I encourage communities to actively safeguard against intolerance. We are at our best when we rally together to protect and look out for each other.

“We all want to live in a world without evil and without hatred. We want to live in a world that celebrates and embraces its diversity. Until we do, we must never stop working for such a world.”

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