Annapolis, MD (December 15, 2005) - Anne Arundel County Executive Janet S. Owens spoke out strongly today against a group responsible for distributing racist hate literature around the County. This group, calling itself the National Alliance, has also recently aired a video on the Public Access Channel. The County Executive, County Council, State’s Attorney Frank Weathersbee, and Police Chief Thomas Shanahan, are uniting in an effort to stop hate in Anne Arundel County. "The hate literature and hate video, as appalling as they are, remain protected by the U.S. Constitution under the first amendment," said County Executive Owens. However, I, along with other County and State Leaders, urge all citizens to ignore those who promote hate and denouncing their message," she added. State’s Attorney Frank Weathersbee said, "I abhor and reject the content of the hate message. As despicable and odious as the messages are, they are, unfortunately, not illegal or against the law. The good news is that when items of hate such as these are published in any form, those of us who despise and reject these hateful publications only become more united and determined to defeat them." Council Chairman Edward Reilly joined with the State’s Attorney and County Executive Owens urging a united effort. "Such ignorance and hatred should not be tolerated by any County resident." Vice Chair Cathleen Vitale added, "I believe Anne Arundel County residents see this act of hate for what it is, and they know it is not indicative of our community." Other Council Members are joining the effort. "I am discouraged and disheartened by the message presented by this group. I believe that we are a County that embraces diversity and welcomes all people," said District 1 Councilwoman Pamela Beidle. "We must continue our efforts to eliminate the dissemination of racist comments," said District 6 Councilwoman Barbara Samorajczyk. "The hate campaign is thoroughly disgusting but unfortunately the sort of thing that we have to live with in a democracy containing the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution," said District 4 Councilman Bill Burlison "It is beyond my comprehension that people think and act this way in the year 2005," added District 2 Councilman Ed Middlebrooks. Anne Arundel County Police Chief Thomas Shanahan said, "This is counterproductive to our community. We are a strong family oriented community and this detracts from the cohesiveness, and our efforts to prevent crime." | 
