As someone who grew up in a Catholic household, I am deeply disturbed by an act of hate that recently occurred in Iowa, USA. Michael Cassidy committed a federal hate crime and an act of terrorism by beheading a religious statue that did not pertain to the Christian faith. This behavior is unacceptable and should be treated with more severity than merely a misdemeanor.

Hate crimes are not taken lightly in our society. According to statistics from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), there were 7,314 hate crime incidents reported in 2019 alone. These acts target individuals or groups based on their religion, race, sexual orientation or other protected characteristics.

This incident involving Michael Cassidy is no different - it was an act fueled by intolerance and disrespect towards another faith. It's important for us to remember that freedom of religion is one of our fundamental rights as citizens of this country.

We need your support to hold Michael Cassidy accountable for his actions. By signing this petition, you're sending a clear message that such acts will not be tolerated and those responsible will face appropriate consequences under law.

Please sign this petition now and demand justice for this heinous hate crime.