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Hate Crime Targets Redding Gay Couple
When Jason and Jeramie stepped outside their home early Saturday morning, they had difficulty comprehending the messages scratched onto the car they’d recently had beautifully painted and detailed: Words like “fags” and “homos” and “bitches move” - had been etched through their car’s new finish, deep into the metal.
“It was hideous,” 33-year-old Jason said of the vandalism that destroyed the car’s exterior.
“It was over every square inch of the car - so deep that it was basically engraved.”
Redding Police estimate that the car was vandalized between 3 and 5 a.m. Saturday, just a few days after the couple had brought their car home from the repair shop.
Jason, who asked that neither his nor his 32-year-old partner’s last names be used here, said Saturday’s event was not the first time they’ve been harassed since they moved to their south Redding neighborhood.
Days earlier their rental truck had been keyed while their car was in the shop. And months before, shortly after the men’s October wedding, they were the victims of a bogus tip to the police - that their home contained a large cache of weapons.
And although the call proved to be false, and although the police later apologized for the mistake, until then, the night the couple still refers to as the “shotgun incident” is a nightmare of an evening they say they’ll never forget.
“There were about 15 or 16 cops,” Jason recalled. “They had the roads blocked with their cars, they had machine guns, and they were screaming for us to get down on our knees and lay face down. It was terrifying.”
Jason said the police searched their house that night and found no guns. He said the police also quickly determined that neither man had a criminal record. Other false accusations followed that one in the fall, but law enforcement no longer took the calls seriously.
“The police have gotten to know that we’re the victims,” Jason said.
Jason said that when the police were called to their home Saturday, the Redding officer who responded assured the couple that the Redding Police Department doesn’t stand for hate crimes, and the RPD would do the very best it could to solve the case.
Monday afternoon Redding police Cpl. Aaron Maready reiterated that sentiment. He said the incident was reported as a hate crime and is under investigation.
He said no suspects had been identified - news that disappointed Jason.
“I was hoping they had suspects,” he said.
“We’re still in fear now. It makes us quite nervous, and it’s disheartening to think it’s possible that nobody will be held accountable.”
Jason, who was raised in Redding and returned a few years ago, said that If anything, every time a hate crime is committed without prosecution it only reaffirms a common belief among victims.
“We know several people in our gay community who’ve not reported (hate crimes),” he said. “They are afraid it will be ignored, or laughed at. We know one person who was physically attacked, and someone else whose brand new truck was kicked in.”
Many times since Saturday Jason and Jeramie have reflected upon the fact that July 1 is the 10th anniversary of the hate crimes that killed Gary Matson and Winfield Mowder, a beloved Happy Valley gay couple - friends to many of us - murdered in their bed by a pair of white supremacist brothers who’d also torched three Sacramento synagogues.
Jason said the reason he shared his story with us was he felt it important that people who live here know that hate crimes still occur in the north state, much more often than we realize.
Tom O’Mara, on behalf of Shasta County Citizens Against Racism, said he understood some victims’ reluctance to report hate crimes. But he also said that if anything, the timing of this week’s incident against a gay couple only underscores the importance of reporting hate crimes.
“While this July 1 marks the 10th anniversary of the slayings of Gary Matson and Winfield Mowder, July 4th marks the 233rd birthday of this country,” O’Mara said.
“It’s a country which began with the words, ‘We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness.’ To those who would commit hate crimes I ask: What part of equal do you not understand? To those who would defend and express reverence for the rights outlined above, it remains essential for us to be vigilant, to proudly defend those whose rights are infringed upon, and to seek justice for everyone who is victimized in this way. To do less makes the Fourth of July something of a hollow ceremony.”
Meanwhile, Jason and Jeramie are so rattled by what’s happened that they’re considering staying elsewhere for a while.
“To be honest, we’re all afraid,” he said Tuesday.
“Tomorrow is the anniversary of the gay guys who were killed. We don’t know where the people who did this to our car will take it next. We’re scared.”
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It is my fervent hope that our community will come together to help ensure that none of us need live in fear. An attack on one of us is an attack on all of us. If we, as residents, refuse to accept this behavior, it can be stopped.
Thanks to the RPD for taking these crimes seriously. I’m sure they will find the culprits. Perhaps their involvement will at least give pause to potential criminals.
My best wishes to the victims, please know that your friends and neighbors are here for you.
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Jason & Jeramie Reply:
July 1st, 2009 at 3:24 pm
Thanks to all who have given support to Jeramie and myself. We are overwhelmed by the level of support we have received. We are still very much living in fear but refuse to let them keep us quiet. We are having issues with covering the damages and some serious security issues, that we could use help with. I have set up a untraceable email account for us, so if you can help in any way please contact Doni Greenburg or email 2009hatevictims@gmail.com. Once again Thank you for all the support! Love Jason & Jeramie
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Jason & Jeramie Reply:
July 1st, 2009 at 4:04 pm
A fund has been set up at Butte Community Bank in the North state under 2009 Hate Victims Recovery Fund
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There is no reason in Redding or the world for hate crimes against anyone at any time. What poor excuses for humans these criminals are.
May James and Jeramie have the Lord’s Blessings and strength during this unfortunate time in their lives, and only better times in the future.
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Imagine the self-loathing of the cowards who committed those crimes in the dark of night. Sooner or later, they will be found out and have to answer for what they’ve done - probably not only to you, but to other victims as well.
Jason and Jeramie, I am so sorry this has happened to you. Please know that there are many people here who support you and believe in equal rights for all. You’ve done the right thing by bringing this to light.
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Jason and Jeramie,
I am so sorry. As a native Redding-ite this saddens me to the core. I know this community to be supportive and caring. But acts of violence and hate taint the waters for all of us. I hope that RPD has a suspect soon and this issue is over for you both.
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My heart goes out to you, Jason and Jeramie — and I wish you both healing, hopeful days ahead.
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It can be scary to be “out.” When I was heavily involved with PFLAG, I failed to understand just how dangerous it was to be “out.” I was reminded, “Redding is not San Francisco.”
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Sickening.
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Unfortunately, some “people” only feel big when they can make somebody else unhappy or scared. Fortunately, there are many more of us around who are repulsed by that kind of behavior, and fight it every way we can.
You did the right thing by bringing it to RPD, and I hope they will be able to catch the cowards soon. It is also good that you told the story, so the rest of us can help with the battle, and not get complacent thinking that this sort of thing doesn’t happen here. We know it does. It will take us all to stop it.
I’m sorry about your car. While it can be fixed, they have taken the joy out of it for you, senselessly and stupidly and jealously, and that hurts.
Just know there are many, many more of us who understand and support your rights.
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I have mixed race Gkids. On a visit here from the Bay area, an innocent trip to the local Wal-Mart ended quickly when a middle aged woman felt compelled to exclaim how cute my little “PICKANINNY” children were! Her companion agreed! Thanks, now can you go put your white robes on so we can see you coming next time?
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I dont understand why some people have such obsessions with telling other people how to live their lives. I have a question. Once it is determined to be a hate crime, under new law, doesnt the FBI get involved and bring federal resources to the investigation of the case? I guess what I’m asking is, what is the substantial difference between a hate crime and a regular vandalism, in regard to the way the act is treated by law enforcement? As in the case ten years ago that you mention in the article (how horrible!) The scum who do these things have a specific agenda to strike fear into a whole community. That is much worse than just scratching up a car (as mean as that might be.) And I certainly understand the fear that the victims feel. Who are these hateful people? Where are they? And when is their next terrorist act going to happen? We have to start educating our children better.
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I was here during the Madson/Mowder gay murders. I knew them both and I was very sad. People who commite hate crime should be in Guantanimo Bay
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Jason and Jeramie,
I felt sick reading about what happened to you. I am so very very sorry. I’m with you, Michael, I have never ever understood why people care so much about something that has no effect on them whatsoever - has nothing to do with them at all. I really believe that most people in this community find this sort of pathological behavior completely unacceptable.
Doni, excellent article. Thanks to you from all of us who find this hateful behavior so very disturbing.
Jason and Jeramine, here’s hoping your days are filled with kindness and support.
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This is so sad to me. Being in an OUT relationship is a challenge in Redding, despite the acceptance of so many forward thinkers such as most of Doni’s readers. It is a sad reminder that we do indead live in Redding. Just reading the comments on that OTHER new website about last weekends pride celebration reminds us of the brave stand we all take everyday just by living our lives honestly and openly. We stand by you! Let your community know how we can help. People need to know this is simply unacceptable behavior!
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Hey Guys If you need a place to move that is more secure and very accepting let me know! You should not have to live like that but it may be awhile till the police find out who’s doing this to you. Know that all people are not like that! Know that you are loved! and Know there are people who are willing to help!
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It makes me sick to my stomach, thinking you have become victims in your own home town. I’m saddened by this pathetic display of hate, and hope it stops immediately. No one should have to live in fear. This is your home, and it needs to feel safe and welcoming. I’m so sorry there are people out there who would take that from you. Blessings to you both.
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Hi you two!
How TERRIBLY sad for you. To be attacked like that in your own home is frightening. That’s the ONE spot in this universe, where you by right should feel completely safe and without threats. My heart goes out to you.
Kirsten
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I don’t get it. What could these two people have done to put such fear, insecurity and hostility in others? What is so terrifying about a couple sharing a home, fixing up a car or supporting our community businesses?
Note to others:
If you have disagreements with Jason and Jeramie’s lifestyle, why not come on line and discuss it rather than sneaking around destroying property? I don’t mean the insane, irrational rants that would and should be immediately deleted. I do mean a dialogue about how Jason and Jeramie have impacted your life in such a way that you feel your actions are justified.
We have young people fighting and dying around the world so that you and Jason and Jeramie can disagree in a thoughtful, peaceful forum. Take advantage of it.
Doug
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Jill wrote, “Unfortunately, some ‘people’ only feel big when they can make somebody else unhappy or scared.” I think that pretty much nails it. I tend to believe that people who commit hate crimes come from miserable childhoods, and that some of them as kids asked, “Daddy, if you and Mama get divorced, will she still be your sister?”
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Jason and Jeramie,
It’s comforting to read these comments of support, but I imagine you’re still left with feelings of fear (which is the whole point of hate crimes). The most difficult part of offering support to someone is finding a solution for their challenges.
Perhaps we can get something done about this crime if we look for solutions. I have no doubt the RPD is taking this seriously, but in truth, police departments are not equipped to prevent every crime that takes place. That would take an enormous police force.
Here are some suggestions. Hopefully, they will get a conversation started that will lead to a solution for you.
1) First thing to do is to go to Costco and pick up their security camera system. I think it costs around $800.
a) Perhaps you can get Costco to donate all or part of it.
b) I’d be willing to set up a bank account for donations from the community.
c) Word-of-Mouth can be a powerful tool. Talk to everyone you know and ask them to talk to everyone they know. I don’t think it would take very long to come up with the money.
d) Perhaps there’s an advocacy group who would be willing to help with the costs.
2) If the first suggestion is not plausible, gather a group of people who are willing to help out. I live in Reno, but am willing to drive to Redding to help.
a) Ask each person to spend a few hours each night sitting in their car outside of your house.
b) Each person should be equipped with a cell phone and should call the police if they see any suspicious behavior at your house.
c) I would recommend that you inform the RPD of your plan so they can be prepared for the phone call when it comes in.
d) I would also recommend that you discourage people from adopting a “vigilante” attitude. Our first concern is your safety. Our second concern is putting a stop to the harassment. We aren’t trying to fuel the fire, we’re just trying to help you so you don’t have to live in fear.
I hope these suggestions help in some way. I firmly believe that hopes and good wishes are not enough and that the best way to ensure that you don’t become another statistic in the fight for human rights is to get support from your community. We do want to help and we want to celebrate the 10 year anniversary of your success, not your demise.
Sincerely,
Rose Flaherty
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Wow, I didn’t realize it has been 10 years since we lost Gary and Winfield to the scourge of blinding hatred. This incident is a poignant reminder that we must continue to actively push back against the forces that spawn ignorance and hate. We still have far to go. I’m so sorry to read this, and sorry for how the actions of a few reflect so badly on our community. This is not the Redding I know and love, but it reveals a struggle with which we continue.
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I am so sorry, but actually not surprised. My son is gay and I have heard many stories from him about the nasty treatment from ignorant people. He and his partner moved to Otis, OR and they said some of their neighbors would not even speak to them once they found out they were gay. Fortunately they do have a couple of open minded neighbors, who do speak to them. We will always have ignorant people in human gene pool. Thankfully, it has gotten some what better for gays, but we have a long way to go.
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So sorry to hear of you suffering this attack!
It is so difficult to represent our community to gay friends and family as a great place to even visit when this occurs here. The murders of Gary and Winfield made such a name for Redding in the gay community, especially in the Bay Area that people are still leery of our area.
Let’s all work to create a better image of Redding. Let’s eliminate hate, by educating one person at a time.
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Hey this is a great article and Not in Our Town did a great documentary about it. Check out there website at http://www.niot.org
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I knew Winfield and Gary well. Win and I worked together at OSH during the time he was murdered. I took numerous native plant classes from Gary. I loved them both, and they loved each other well. I still miss them…. I will always miss them. Redding and Shasta County miss them.
Good job to my friends in blue for taking this crime as seriously as it needs to be. This type of activity will NOT be allowed!!!!!!
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Any victim of home vandalism or theft knows how invasive it feels…but to have it be an actual hate crime against you as a person, has to be 1,000 times worse. Many of us are willing to speak out on behalf of individual rights…but we don’t really know where to speak out to make an impact. I know that some of the readers have been active in gay rights work and perhaps they have ideas of how we can actually make a difference….not just by contributing money to PFLAG, but specifically making a difference in Redding attitudes.
When you pull your head out of the sand, it would be good to do more than just shake it.
Jason and Jeramie, thank you for sharing your story and Doni, thanks for reporting it so well.
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In regards to the hate crime perpetrated against the two gentlemen, I suggest that citizens use the phone numbers listed, under City Government Offices, to report incidents within their neighborhood: 225-4564, 225-4209, 247-4264, and of course 911. I have dealt with several officers and I know they are committed to assist in times of need. Callers can remain anonymous, if needed. As well, I suggest the glbt/friends community quickly organize a neighborhood peacful protest march and let the ‘paint engravers’ know that they’re being watched.
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Great idea, Frank!
Remember the peaceful protest march through the Pinon neighborhood in 2003 (I believe that was the year) that a cross was burned on a lawn there. I was proud to be a part of that march and to see the community of Anderson come together to show that it will not tolerate hatred. Shasta County also has a great spirit that is conveyed when it comes together - now is one of those times to do so.
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I hope Jason nd Jeramie can find some peace. There is no excuse for hate crimes; they do nothing but bring on more hate. Terrible!
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This really sickens me. I have been a proud gay rights advocate for many years and I have never understood why people must be so hateful. This area has always been a bit close-minded in my opinion and that is unfortunate. I really hope to see an end to this sort of behavior while I live here.
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