Forum Will Discuss Local Cross-Burning

Concerned citizens will hold a town meeting at 7:30 tonight in the Moscow City Community Center, 206 East 3rd St., to discuss last week’s cross-burning and firebombing of a local citizen activist’s home.

Representatives from diverse sectors of the community - religious, business, government and minority organizations, as well as the attorney representing one of the victims - have been invited to give short presentations.

The forum also is intended to help the community come up with ideas for preventing further incidents.

Liz Brandt, a law professor and local human rights authority, will run the meeting.

On Monday, WSU President Sam Smith and Provost Gretchen Bataille issued a statement repudiating the crime directed toward Moscow activist Lori Graves and reaffirming the school’s commitment to social justice.

“We encourage community members to show solidarity against hate and racism, through activities such as tomorrow evening’s town meeting at the Moscow Community Center,” the statement read.

“Furthermore during this holiday season, we ask for individuals throughout our community to join us in reaffirmation of commitments to ensure our community is open and welcoming to all people.”