YouTube Video Captures Verbal Harassment at Twin Cities Pride

YouTube Video Captures Post-Pride Verbal Harassment - Prompts Range of Concerns
OutFront Minnesota decries all hate- or bias-motivated violence and harassment, regardless of who is targeted; we are glad the targets were not physically harmed.  This particular incident adds a level of controversy because the perpetrators and targets appear to be of different racial backgrounds.  As we have seen in the wake of the Prop. 8 vote in California, racism exists within the GLBT community and can rise to the surface at difficult times.  It's critical to remember that judging a person's actions is different from judging their presumed background.  OutFront Minnesota remains committed to helping address racism within the GLBT community, and to being a strong advocate for GLBT community members from ALL racial or ethnic backgrounds. 

We know that GLBT people are from all walks of life.  OutFront Minnesota works with many GLBT Somali people and have worked for many years with Somali Action Alliance and other groups working to make Minnesota a better place for all.  Hashi Shafi from the Alliance said: "We share our sorrow with the victim, the young man who experienced this."  Shafi looks forward to speaking with the families of the young men involved in the bias incident and the victim.  Watch for educational events sponsored by OutFront Minnesota in coalition with Somali Action Alliance and other organizations working toward increasing understanding and equality in Minnesota for all people.

To read more about OutFront Minnesota's Anti-Violence Program or to report an incident, click here.