By Paul Tuthill
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wamc/local-wamc-976164.mp3
Springfield, MA – An assault on an openly gay man in Springfield Massachusetts by a group of 9 youths has led to calls for changes in anti-violence education in the public schools. Activists demonstrated Tuesday at the city park where the attack happened one week ago. WAMC"s Pioneer Valley Bureau Chief Paul Tuthill reports.
Bullying that occurs because of a person's sexual orientation should be specifically referenced in anti-bullying policies in the Massachusetts public schools, in the opinion of Springfield City Councilor and gay rights activist, Amaad Rivera.
Rivera and about two dozen sign holding activists stood in front of Barrows Park in Springfield Tuesday to call attention to the violent assault on a 30 year old openly gay man. The victim did not attend the rally, but was in support of it, according to organizers.
Springfield police say the man was beaten and robbed of an mp3 player by 9 youths, five males and four females, ranging in age from 12 to 19. Police say the man was subjected to anti-gay slurs during the beating. The youths have been charged with violation of civil rights with injury, which is a hate crime. The victim was treated at a hospital and later released.
Springfield School Committee vice -chair Denise Hurst, who took part in the demonstration, said the schools have strict anti-bulling and anti-harassment policies , but acknowledged there is work to do to address gay discrimination.
Holly Richardson, of the organization Out Now, works with gay and lesbian youth in Springfield.
Demonstrators held signs that read " Resist Anti-gay Violence" " Spread love not Hate" and " Keep our Streets Safe. Mariel Martin said the incident was horrifying..
Activists also passed out flyers to people in the park that explained the reason for the demonstration and included information under the headline Myths and Facts About Sexual Orientation.