My thoughts go out to those that received hate mail this week and to those that were sexually assaulted way back at the beginning of the semester.

To those that were pelted with rocks from above because the color of their skin did not match the skin tone of their attackers. To the student that was forced to awaken with the image of swastikas harshly scrawled upon the dorm door. To a special girl whom I personally know who has witnessed numerous Ku Klux Klan cross burnings in her hometown of Bellefonte (ever hear of it?).

To everyone in the community that has and will have to suffer the humility in the shadow of the impending Hooters restaurant. To those that were chased and assaulted for defending the National Coming Out Day banner last week.

And, last but not least, my thoughts and heartfelt thanks to everyone who stands up for what they believe, especially during difficult and discouraging times like these.