In regard to the letter from yesterday’s paper, “The hate crime inflicted upon me,” I would like to thank you, Ryan, for hopefully opening the university’s eyes to the hate and ignorance that unfortunately lingers here at Iowa State.

Normally, I would assume that this kind of hate is not seen or heard very often on this campus, but perhaps it just does not show its face to my eyes or ears.

Although I choose not to allow those who surround me to discriminate out loud in my presence, it does not mean that others are not drenched in this type of hateful noise constantly.

Hopefully, this act of violence makes us all step back and realize the physical hurt and emotional pain it has caused you, Ryan, as well as many others.

I don’t think an incident such as this has been reported in the Daily lately and I respect your choice to address the situation, whereas others may have shied away.

You wrote with such confidence and determination, motivated to inform ISU students, administration, faculty and staff of this meaningless act of violence.

I am also proud and impressed that in writing this letter, you are bringing the incident to your attacker’s attention, acknowledging that his actions did not prove anything.

He didn’t become a better or tougher person because of this incident.

I can only pray that friends and family of the attacker are disappointed and ashamed of his ignorant and shameful actions. I hope he reflects on his violence and realizes nothing was accomplished.

He definitely did not move up in status as a “big winner” among his peers because of this.

However, you did Ryan, for standing up for what you believe is right and for bringing this hate and ignorance to the attention of all us here at Iowa State.

Perhaps we should all reflect on what hate really accomplishes.

Nikki Johnson

Senior

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