I usually write my own original content in this blog and don’t simply repost other people’s words. I try to add my perspective to what’s being said about LGBT issues. But this email I just received from GetEqual was so shocking and upsetting and really said it all, so I am just going to repost it here:
Dear friends,
Sadly, even with each step we make towards progress, we can’t forget the discrimination LGBT folks face across the country…
We’re working with an extraordinarily brave Tennessee couple, Laura and Carol Ann Stutte, whose home was burned to the ground and whose garage was spray-painted with the word “QUEERS.” Returning from an anniversary celebration weekend six months ago to the ashes of their former life, they have been fighting with their insurance company (American National Property and Casualty) simply to honor their homeowners policy and allow their family to move forward.
The Stuttes’ neighbor had threatened them before, pledging to kill their dog (found poisoned shortly thereafter) and to burn down their home (done). They’re now living in another part of Tennessee, fearful that their neighbor will find them and kill them, since she announced to them that, “The only thing better than one dead queer is two dead queers.”
We’re committed to doing everything we can to make sure that this family sees justice, and have partnered with Change.org to mobilize as many justice-minded folks as possible to petition the insurance company, ANPAC, to make good on the Stuttes’ policy.
Please help the Stuttes family in this small way to at least let them recuperate from the damages done to their home. This will in no way make up for the trauma and violence enacted upon them, but will allow them some stability to move forward and rebuild.
My wishes go out to them and to all survivors of vicious hate crimes.
i honestly don’t understand people how does burning someones home down make you right its not right,what gives them the right to do so.it sickens me to see hate like this or of any form.
it’s scary to still find this type of hate and violence ,we have friends and family in Tennessee, and we know the Bible-belt ignorance is alive and well there ,,,we are so sorry for this couple and hope the best for them both
I am quite appalled at this. I support LGBT and with the prejudice that has been shown with this monstrosity, I’m glad I’m not biased. Bless the victims’ hearts and I hope the neighbor is given hard time.
God bless!