It’s surely simplistic to suggest that a violence epidemic is the result of this, or the result of that; there are myriad factors in cahoots with each other. But I will say this: a political party or religion or social movement which condones the marginalization of one group can’t be surprised when others do the same.
Overlooking antisemitism in Europe, for example, has meant a proliferation of attacks against more groups because people who discriminate aren’t usually that picky; they hate everyone. Denying rights to LGBT people in the U.S. has sent a message that some people are inferior and don’t deserve equal human rights. That’s an easy launchpad for someone already predisposed by a mental illness or a belief system that advocates violence as an acceptable means of surmounting an obstacle.
That’s how marginalization works, spreading within and without, like mold in a wall. It’s also hypocrisy’s home port, and there’s nothing sicker than the sorry sobs of bigots and opportunists who would just as likely cheer if it been their own bête noire against the wall.
Yes, the victims in Orlando were targeted because they were gay; but, more importantly, they were targeted because they were different - different than the madman who took the readily available rationalization of marginalization to the next level. But, here’s the thing. I’m different, too. And if you think about it, so are you. The fact is we’re all on someone’s hit list, as long as anyone's intolerance is condoned.
Frankly, that scares the living daylights out of me.
