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Homophobic graffiti on a shed in a northern Vermont town has startled locals into expressing support and esteem for the targets of the slur.
When Michael Bindler and Glen Bartolomeo found the words "Go Fag" spray-painted in gray at the end of their bed and breakfastÕs driveway in late December, they were hurt and frightened - and angry. "I was livid and teary-eyed," said Bindler.
Apparently they weren't the only ones outraged by the incident. According to The County Courier, a group of citizens has started collecting donations toward a reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the party responsible for the vandalism.
"As far as I'm concerned, when someone's attacked, especially citizens who contribute to the community, I consider it an attack on the community," said Brent Godin, one of the organizers of the reward drive.
Residents of Montgomery for seven years, both Bindler and Bartolomeo are out in the community, active in local government and volunteers for several organizations. "Michael and Glen are such a vital part of this town. I don't care what it is you ask, they will contribute. I've never known them to say 'I'm too busy,'"Sue Wilson, a Montgomery resident, told the Courier.
Bindler says he and his partner are convinced that the unprecedented demonstration of hate was "the act of one idiot" and they have drawn strength from the outcry by their fellow townspeople. "Everything has been positive, the only bad part was the paint."
Citizens of Montgomery and people from all over the country have contacted Bindler and Bartolomeo to express support for them and disbelief that something like this could happen. "We got a call from Ohio! It has just been amazing," says Bindler. "We're here and people love us."
