I am writing in response to Michael Lutz's letter about the failure of vigils and public demonstrations to prevent sexual assaults, racial discrimination, or any other type of hate crime. Though I admit that vigils and demonstrations alone will not be the cure-all that will end all hate crimes, and that rape and hate crimes will probably continue to reported even after the demonstrations, I would hesitate to assert that they serve no purpose.

Many researchers of racial discrimination and sexual assault have noted that such behavior is more pervasive in communities that are supportive of these crimes. For example, if someone tells a racist joke and everyone in the room laughs, an environment supportive of racism has been established. When Penn State students attend vigils and speak out against hate crimes and sexual assaults at vigils and demonstrations, we are sending a message to the community that we are not supportive of this behavior and it will not be tolerated.

I believe that one of the greatest gifts of being human is the ability to physically manifest our feelings, to come together and stand up for what we believe in. When students, administration and members of the community unite in support of one another, those who have been victimized will understand that there are people who do care about these issues and that they are not alone. Maybe it would not be so bad to surround ourselves in hope and faith, because maybe then we can create that.