Published: November 10, 2009 12:32 pm      

Philemon church members deserve better

We tend to think of terrorism as something that happens somewhere else — in Iraq, Afghanistan, New York City and Washington D.C. — even Oklahoma City. But ours is a relatively small and peaceful community. Sure, things happen, but they do in all communities large and small. But terrorism here? Never.

Wrong.

Terrorism is as apt a description as one is likely to find to describe the race related bigotry that mysteriously appeared overnight on the Philemon Missionary Baptist Church in Hammond Heights in Ada, a predominately African American community. Most of the words painted on windows, doors and the church’s sign were too reprehensible to print or show photographs of in the newspaper.

Unfortunately, authorities will be hard pressed to find the culprits. Unless caught in the act, finding those who destroy or deface property is an almost impossible task unless someone comes forward to identify them.

And while no lives were lost at the hands of these graffiti terrorists, they share a common trait with those who kill and maim. They are both cowards.

Who but cowards sneak around in the middle of the night to apply spray painted racial slurs to a house of worship? They may be kids, or not. Whether they are 14 or 40, they are immature to the point of almost hopeless ignorance. Their actions were moronic, at best, sinister at worst.

Yes, lives were not lost and no limbs were broken. No blood was spilled or physical pain felt. But the intimidation factor of having racial slurs painted on one’s church building is an assault on the senses and the psyche.

The people of Hammond Heights deserve better.

Anyone having information about this crime should call Ada CrimeStoppers at 33 CATCH or 332-2824. Anonymity is guaranteed and you can earn a cash reward.

— Loné Beasley