Out in the Mountains

 

Pride Day Greeting from
Governor Kunin

I'm very sorry tliatl can'tbe with you today,
but I am speaking at an event which parallels
your concern for human rights: the rally to wel-
come Nelson Mandela.

Whatl would like to share with you is my
observation that this coalition of Vermonters
made a break through a wall of prejudice this
year. Most particularly, your ability to gather
wide support for the Hate Crimes bill heralds a
new level of understanding of these issues.

In addition, the ability for all of us to
coalesce around this legislation provided a
healing mechanism following the brutal assault
which took place in Burlington last spring.

While the legislation won't single-
handedly eliminate hatred and bias, it does
provide an important affirmation of our shared
values and makes it clear that anyone who
deviates from these standards will be punished.

I am also pleased to note that the political
"fallout" from publicity affirming your cause
has declined. When I first attended your rally on
Gay Pride Day, I was the lone politician to
speak. Today, I am far from alone, and more
importantly, you are not alone.

With best wishes,

Madeleine M. Kunin

Governor, State of Vermont

PRIE DAY
1990