Lexington C.A.R.E.S.April 9, 2008
The members of Lexington C.A.R.E.S. are appalled and saddened by the recent call for violence aimed at the Lexington Public Schools' Superintendent. Superintendent Paul Ash's introduction of the pilot diversity curriculum, which drew the ire of New Jersey-based Internet talk show host Hal Turner, reflects our community's longstanding goal of ensuring that our schools are safe and welcoming for all students. The curriculum recognizes that Lexington has many different types of families, including children raised by gay or lesbian parents. This is simply part of our community's ongoing tradition and commitment to respect and welcome all families and all children in our public schools.
Hal Turner, who called on his Internet radio listeners to physically attack Paul Ash, is someone well known to authorities and those who monitor hate groups. He promotes anti-Semitism and white supremacy. That he would spew his venom at a community committed to diversity is truly sad. We would hope that everyone, no matter what their position on this issue, would reject this peddling of hate and violence.