Candidates’ support sends loud message

I share the sentiments of the July 8 letter writer who bemoans the silence of our elected officials before, during, and since the arrival of the “seemingly” racist vigilante Minuteman gang to our city.

Inside the Elks Lodge, embracing Mr. Gilchrist, were two candidates for local office – one for Everett City Council; the other for Snohomish County sheriff. It is the latter that most concerns me.

While it is the duty of all law enforcement personnel to protect and defend the rights – both legal and civil – of all the citizens they serve, in Tom Greene we find a man who publicly embraces the likes of nationally recognized anti-gay activist, Rev. Ken Hutcherson (keynote speaker for Greene’s campaign kick-off breakfast) as well as noted vigilante leader Jim Gilchrist.

This is not a matter of defending “gay rights” or “illegal immigrants,” but a case of maintaining a perception of “equal protection under the law” while enforcing the law equally toward all. What message would be sent to the members of our minority communities if Mr. Greene moves beyond the primary ballot in August? What picture of our diverse Snohomish County would be painted with the election of Tom Greene to the position of sheriff?

It should be noted that there was one candidate joining the group outside the event. Jacke Minchew, candidate for Everett City Council, stood proudly with those who denounce the welcoming of Gilchrist and his ilk into our town.

Chad Shue

Everett