In an article on myFoxchicago.com, it is revealed that further investigations are underway in regard to the cross that was positioned in the pagan center of worship at the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs. A cross, crafted out of railroad ties, was found lying against a rock in the circle of stones on January 17th.
Tech. Sgt. Brandon Longcrier, a pagan and the man responsible for the establishment of the circle of stones, asserts that he and other pagans are the victims of a religious hate crime. Longcrier explains that the act is no different than if someone left a pentagram or some other symbol in the Christian chapel at the academy.
In an email contact sent by Longcrier to the Military Religious Freedom Foundation, Longcrier asserts that his group had been “thrown under the bus,” by a system that they had put their trust in and that a religious hate crime is not something that can be ignored.
The director of communications at the Air Force Academy, David Cannon, explains that the incident is undergoing further investigation at this time, but he would not comment on whether or not the incident would actually be classified as a religious hate crime after the investigation has been completed. Cannon did say that if a cadet from the academy is responsible, officials would have the power to prosecute, however, if a civilian is responsible for the action, the local authorities will have be called in to deal with the situation.
Lt. Gen. Mike Gould, the superintendent at the Academy explained that the officials at the academy would ensure appropriate measures are taken if a cadet is found responsible for the action. Gould asserts that this event is being taken very seriously and an inquiry is being conducted. He also stated that the academy will not stand for such destructive actions or such blatant disrespect for the dignity of others.
You can find out more about this incident of religious intolerance at myFoxchicago.com.
Tags: hate crime, religious intolerance
