600 protest racist cross burnings

On May 25, three seven-foot crosses were found burning in different locations in Durham, N.C. The first was outside St. Luke’s Episcopal Church. Residents believe this church was targeted because of its open acceptance of the lesbian, gay, bi and trans community.

Another was found on South Roxboro Street. A third was across the street from the United House Of Prayer at Holloway and Dillard. Both sites are in downtown Durham.

Yellow fliers left at the last location read: “Gangbangers, local police have let your activities go too far. Take notice. You will answer to us. Sincerely, KKK.�

The next evening, people turned out by the hundreds at each location for vigils to protest what many called “domestic terrorism.�

Two hundred people came together outside the United House of Prayer. A tree was planted at the spot where the cross was burned to symbolize peace, love and solidarity among people of all races, sexual orientations, religions and so on.

Another 225 people gathered on South Roxboro Street near Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway. Some 200 came out at St. Luke’s Church.

At the candlelight vigils, people spoke out against the previous night’s acts of racism and hatred. In addition to the note and obvious bigotry against the lesbian/gay/bi/trans community, some Black residents said they believe there is also another reason for the assault: a reactionary proposal to change the current rules for electing school board members, backed by the Concerned Citizens for Accountable Government and the Durham Regional Association Of Realtors.

The proposal would allow all voters to vote for every school board seat. This would diminish representation of African Americans and other oppressed people. Currently there are three designated geographical areas with Black majorities, which guarantees representation on the seven-member school board.

Durham residents made it clear that they won’t stand for more racist attacks. They want those responsible for the cross burnings punished. So strong is the community response that the city’s Human Relations Department has called for a citywide rally.

Yvonne Peña, head of the department, told the Herald-Sun newspaper: “We will not accept this kind of activity whatsoever. We're a diverse community and we're striving to overcome racial barriers.�