Thanks for running Maggie Gallagher’s column “Hate speech of gay marriage advocates” BDN, Aug. 8).

It appears that hate speech is only applicable to those who speak out in defense of heterosexual marriage and the universal institution of the home where a father and mother raise their children together. When someone as prominent as the Rev. Fauntroy speaks out on the importance of protecting marriage, it is called hate speech. On the other hand, to denigrate and castigate someone for speaking out about what they believe is right is not considered hate speech.

There are still many of us who believe that the term “marriage” is applicable only to the union of a man and woman. The strong homes of this nation in the past and at the present time have been an asset to this nation in more ways than one. As homes and marriages have begun to break down, we see the results in the unrest and insecurity of the youth.

The hate crimes and hate speech agenda is an attack on the faith of the American people. The homosexual activists and their allies are using the hate crime laws to silence the opposition. However, the truth will not be silenced.

Lois MacGregor

Gouldsboro