I am writing to tell you of a grave concern I have for our community.  Our State representative, Tom McMillin is hosting a nationally known hate extremist, David Barton, for his fundraiser on March 5, 2014.

Mr. Barton is on the Southern Poverty Law Center watch list of hate extremists. The Southern Poverty Law Center (SLPC) is dedicated to fighting hate and bigotry and to seeking justice for the most vulnerable members of our society.  Using litigation, education, and other forms of advocacy, the Center works toward the day when the ideals of equal justice and equal opportunity will be a reality.  I’ve attached a link about David Barton for your review along with a copy of McMillin’s invitation. There are only about 100 people on this list and it is my belief that the SPLC does not add people to this list lightly.

The time has come for our community to stand up to Tom and his extremist views.  Tom is bringing hate to Michigan and to our area specifically.  His actions work against everything we stand and work for in the greater Rochester area.  It tarnishes the great job all of us do for the betterment of our community. Plus, it totally goes against the work our Public Schools are doing to promote unity, equity and inclusion.

I was raised by the notion that to sit by and say nothing when somebody does something wrong is the same as agreeing with them.  This is not about party politics; it is about standing up for the great community we live in.

Please email Tom at TomMcMillin@house.mi.gov to let him know that we have no room for hate propaganda here in the Rochester area. It is time for our community to say enough is enough to Tom McMillin and his extremist friends.

Link to his invite:

 https://www.facebook.com/events/632965970093529/

Link to Southern Poverty Law Profile:

http://www.splcenter.org/get-informed/intelligence-files/profiles/david-barton