Anti-gay graffiti sprayed on walls in man's home

Kenneth Cassar

Aug 26th 2009, 07:03

@ A Grima:

Nature does not "intend" anyone to do or be anything. Read some science. As for normal, normal is being oneself and not pretending to be that which one is not.

Martin Spiteri

Aug 26th 2009, 00:37

@ Anthony Roberts

I think you have misunderstood Christ big time. Christ has never ever spoke against homosexuality. And the teachings of Christ only urge us to love one another as we love ourselves. christ never spoke against human sexuality. What Christ spoke against was hypocrecy and deceit . He used to call them oqbra imbajda .

Christ was a true humanist and please avoid branding Christ as a homophobe!

Victor Sammut

Aug 26th 2009, 00:35

@ A.Grima
We gays do not live a life style. We live a life! Unfortunetely we live a life dodging negative remarks such as you make. We are peaceful, loving people who want nothing more than to live our life without harrasement. I left our beautiful island because of the toxic enviroment I was forced to endure. Thank God my adoped country has a meaningful "Charter of Rights & Freedoms" including the right to marry my partner of 26 years.
"Andre" and partner: My best wishes go out to you. This story truly breaks my heart. I wish you both a happy life. Most Maltese people are astute enough to treat you with the love and dignity that you deserve.

Martin Spiteri

Aug 26th 2009, 00:31

@ Bernard Muscat

I cannot stress that all attacks on gays are done by gays themselves, but if you read psychological studies and research there is a lot of truth and evidence. I might have been too generalistic but what I said has been proven true , do not forget the expression , it takes one to know one . it takes a thief to catch a thief. While I condemn these barbaric acts you mentioned , they are in countries where fanaticism is rife. In USA these acts are more common than you mentioned , and we rarely hear about them. In the Film brokeback mountain there was a reference to such acts and they are shamefull and distressing. I am not excusing hetros here but you may be surprised how many so called hetros are not hetros at all.

Martin Spiteri

Aug 26th 2009, 00:25

@ A Grima

I think you need to be reborn into a proper world. What is normal to me could be abnormal to you . Have you ever heard of the phrase "UNITY IN DIVERSITY" or are you one of those who cannot accept anyone who is different to you ? do you ever realise that homosexuality is increasingle being recognised world wide as another gender?

Martin Spiteri

Aug 26th 2009, 00:22

@ Kenneth Cassar

you just proved me right. tough luck edward bartolo, St paul just bellowed the old jewish traditions.

He looked upon Christ as that powerfull leader who was an absolute.

For me Christ is a wonderful man who gave everyone the chance to live. He made no distinctions between men and women , even though many religions interpret him as being another sexist like the catholic church who refuses to admit that women can make good priests. Christ was described by those who wrote about him as they pleased. Christ was totally human and when we do not accept him as one we will only make him into an alien to humanity

Martin Spiteri

Aug 26th 2009, 00:17

@ Edward bartolo

I think you have no idea about pauline writings at all. If you read carefully his writings, one discovers that st paul ( i refuse to call him st paul , for me he was neither a saint nor a humanist). St Paul was completely mad on Christ and he misinterpreted Christ and created a serious ideology of which we are still suffering today. Most theologians declare st paul as being very sexist and his teachings about marriage is very crude and biased. He even stresses for the man " beatu dak li HU wahdu" why should the single person be a beatu , when we know that the love between two persons is the most beautiful thing on earth? Have you any idea that st paul is very influenced by fanatic laws which discriminate women? Do you remember When Christ was faced by the adulteress? Who committed the crime? she alone? where was the man? When it comes to humanistic approaches, St Paul fails bitterly. And Christs love to the church is a type of love , it does not diminish the love of two persons. they are not comparable.

Mario Borg

Aug 26th 2009, 00:14

Lately i noticed a lot of these incidents especially racial vandalism on billboards and walls but being private its more scary and it makes you wonder why a large percentage of the younger generation on this island have been brought up with such sexual/racial hatred. I blame it to the mediocrity of maltese tv and the church.

Valerie Borg

Aug 25th 2009, 22:05

What is it about my life you don't like? Is it that I am happy loving my partner? having a child together? That i pay my bills just like you or is it that i breathe the same air as you?

What is this thing about a homosexual lifestyle compared to a straight life. The only difference is the love making. Everything else is the same, arguments, laughter, watching your favourite program on tv, it's all the same. Why do you care about the sex lives of homosexuals cause i am sure that homosexuals don't give a stuff about the sex lives of heterosexuals!!!

NOW......... WHO CAN GUESS MY SEXUALITY?

one more note why is it that the police the ones who should be protecting the people don't show any concern to "Andre?" If the police don't lead by example how do you expect the people to show anything more?? The government needs to do something about this?

A. Luca

Aug 25th 2009, 21:26

@ A.Grima:

I assume you also still believe that Darwin's Evolutionism is heretic, that Galileo Galilei was wrong about the earth not being flat, and that the Jewish race killed Jesus and should be exterminated (together with homosexuals and the disabled).

Let's all pray together: God is heterosexual. Amen.


"Homosexuality," Plato wrote, "is regarded as shameful by barbarians and by those who live under despotic governments just as philosophy is regarded as shameful by them, because it is apparently not in the interest of such rulers to have great ideas engendered in their subjects, or powerful friendships or passionate love-all of which homosexuality is particularly apt to produce."

Let's burn all homosexuals at the stake, and go conquer Jerusalem again while we're at it. Let's get rid of democracy altogether and let the Church openly run the country. Elections are a waste of money after all. Our money would be better spent on teaching poor souls in Africa not to use condoms. Let's ensure that they continue to live in misery and die in the Mediterranean Sea if they try to escape it. Afterall pain and suffering are a shortcut to heaven.

Gay lifestyle? Read as gay misery.

A.Grima

Aug 25th 2009, 20:53

Now, we are saying..GAYS have Normal LIFE STYLE!! Can anybody please enlighten me what NORMAL is!! Is it NORMAL for gays to do certain things the way nature intended NOT TO?

Bernard Muscat

Aug 25th 2009, 20:22

Anthony Roberts: Please let's not start these silly arguments about the “homosexual lifestyle” again – because there is no such thing as a different lifestyle which gay people supposedly live. It is interesting, isn’t it, how we consider straight people to have “lives”, but gay people to have “lifestyles”.

I assure you that I have no lifestyle which is any different from any of my peers who are straight. I could live in your same street for decades and you would have no clue I am gay. For all you know, I already do.

Plus, I am not catholic myself, but I remember what you call “the teachings of christ” saying a lot about hypocrites, liars, thieves and gossips, but nothing about people who *love* a person of their same gender – assuming that is what you mean with the “homosexual lifestyle”. So please let’s focus our preachings on people who are indeed causing trouble and harming other people with their antics, and leave in peace people who, like in this case, are in a long-term loving relationship with their partner, causing absolutely no harm to anyone.

A. Luca

Aug 25th 2009, 18:40

Read and learn the facts of history:

http://www.fordham.edu/halsall/pwh/1979boswell.html

Anthony Roberts

Aug 25th 2009, 18:12

Its amazing how religion has been brought in to this. It has nothing to do with religion. Insighting religious hatred is just as bad as homophobia. Religious freedom must always be protected. People do not have to agree with homosexual lifestyle, but breaking in to some one home and committing acts of vandalism is unjustifiable. Homosexual people are also human beings, but their lifestyles is contrary to the teachings of Christ and so is cruelty and bad mouthing!

Kenneth Cole

Aug 25th 2009, 17:16

Gay couples can't even be safe and respected in their own home now? no wonder people in same sex relationships prefer to leave this tiny island of closed minded homophobes! It just pisses me off...why do people think gay people are so different? As a bisexual person i see no difference at all...the relationships are basically the same, apart from how one shows their love to their partner, and that is not an issue, its a private matter. I hate the fact that the world has created this stereotype of what gay or lesb is. Its not like being flamboyant is bad either. I am a very "out" person, whatever that means, and people who have a problem should confront the problem that they have with their own heads. GAY RIGHTS NEED IMPROVMENT

Bernard Muscat

Aug 25th 2009, 12:59

Martin Spiteri: I do perfectly agree with you however that the anti-gay rhetoric parading as preachings “towards the common good” that religions have been brainwashing gullible people with for centuries is part of this very serious problem.

simon galea

Aug 25th 2009, 12:58

Although I am not gay, I can fully understand what Andre must have felt. Intolerance is still prevailing in this place.
It is imperative to hold on to the mainstream, that is holding your family's political orientation, being a 'Roman Catholic ' (not the real catholic but the one adoring statues, fireworks, and putting morality and ethics last on the list), preserving 'our culture' by not involving yourself in any relationship with coloured persons (it is ok to say hello or miskin, but bringing a coloured partner home may cause havoc to your family's honour!), being a macho heterosexual, putting your 'well being' first before principles and morality (irrispective if that means creating injustice to others), even following the traditional eating habits! (being a vegeterian is labelled by a number of ' local intellectuals' as weird).
I personally am going through something similar lately, being what I am, speaking and acting what in my true conscious feels right landed me in being sidelined even by my own family members.
It does hurt me to be treated in such a manner but on the other hand I am confident that this ignorance is on its way out.
Take care Andre.

Bernard Muscat

Aug 25th 2009, 12:56

Martin Spiteri: While it is true that many LGBT people may at first find it hard to come to terms with their sexual orientation or gender identity due to the rabidly homophobic and heterosexist societies we live in, your assertion that most gay bashers are gay themselves is not based on any reasonable proof.

You also say that no heterosexual person “would every bother to dedicate time to be such a coward.” Your comment adds insult to injury. In the past two weeks, there have been attacks on a gay club in Israel (leaving 2 young people dead and many injured), an anti-gay attack on a same-sex couple in Rome (leaving one of them in intensive care fighting for his life), a teenager in Michigan suffering skull fracture after being beaten by two teens shouting homophobic slurs at him, and who knows how many other unreported anti-gay crimes worldwide.

I am hoping that you are not under any impression that most crimes against gay people are committed by gays who want to pass as straight.

Mark Roberts

Aug 25th 2009, 12:42

Its Ok to be straight!

G Borg Olivier

Aug 25th 2009, 11:38

This is just more bad publicity for Malta and has already been published on a foreign website - http://www.notiziegay.com/?p=33877. And I got to this link via Twitter by simply searching for 'Malta' - something that a lot of people who will be visiting the island do.

james grech

Aug 25th 2009, 11:21

Pure Envy by stupid meaningless and useless criminals...Who hasn't envy neighbours in this country? For us Maltese, they just have no excuse (such like this case) to come into out house and vandalise their envy...

Martha Zerafa

Aug 25th 2009, 10:09

I really beleive in live and let live!!! the world will be a much better place.The person who did this must be really disturbed and needs help.but it's not fair to put all the maltese people under one cover.

edward bartolo

Aug 25th 2009, 08:40

@Martin Spiteri

St. Paul was not a women hater as you so earnestly are claiming. In his writings he insisted that men should model their love towards their wife on Christ's love of the church, and this, is considered a *total* love.

Before trying to teach the world about St. Paul, be decent with yourself to learn about him and his teachings.
Comments like yours only reflect the sheer lack of knowledge.

St. Paul is a pillar who does not yield to the weak breeze from a religiously uninformed tantrum like yours. If you want to be credible, do your homework first!

V Caruana

Aug 25th 2009, 08:13

Sure that only a minority of people know that "Andre" is gay. Maybe andre knows better than the police. I hope that the vandal is caught. What inspired the vandal to break into his home and paint graffiti on the inside wall? Wouldn't have been much easier to painted on the outside wall? Why on newly-restored walls? They must have known the place very well? could have this been a revenge on a love affair that never lasted?

Kenneth Cassar

Aug 25th 2009, 07:59

@ A Grima:

St Paul's letters also speak about how women should not hold positions of authority, should submit to men, and should not even teach. I wonder...do you also believe that women can teach if they want to, but should not "show off" that they are teachers?

As for men not saying they fancy every woman they meet, where have you heard that gay people fancy every man they meet?

Joe Galea

Aug 25th 2009, 07:48

@Martin Spiteri: I know a myriad of gay people and I don't see anyone in his/her daily life going round flaunting his/her sex and shouting out loud his/her gayness. If one has certain gay mannerisms it's not his fault as normally they come naturally. Now if straight men are sometimes attracted to these mannerisms and are excited or repelled towards gay men then it's their problem. Women are all the time flaunting their bodies (for those who can do it). So aren't they a moral hazard too? Grow up man. I suggest you mingle a bit with gay people and you will find out that there is a whole lot more colourful and intriguing world than the one you know.

Joe Galea

Aug 25th 2009, 07:39

@A. Grima: I like that one...lol...Was St. Paul attending a gay pride or was in a turkish bath in a gay sauna when he wrote that letter? Come on that letter could have been written for everyone, I never found the word gay in the Bible, which was translated and re-translated to suit the church in order to keep it's grip over the citizens along the times. You taparsi Catholics depict God as a being who hates His own creations. Or else you admit that God creates imperfections which implies that He is not perfect as your church always states "God is almighty and perfect in any way.". I believe the latter, so I believe that He created a spectrum of human beings and animals just to make the world more colorful. Only bigots and narrow minded people make the world dull and sad.

Victor Fiorini

Aug 24th 2009, 23:36

@A Grime: You say "I do not go saying that I fancy every women I meet!!"... do you realise you are implying that you fancy every woman you meet (but simply don't say it)?!?!?! You might want to be careful what you write, mate...

Martin Spiteri

Aug 24th 2009, 19:28

@ . A Grima what you just wrote is pathetic! how can anyone with a fraction of common sense bring in the bible!! Does it ever occur to you that the bible is a very imperfect book written in different times and has nothing to do with a Perfect God who loves all humans without any form of discrimination? And please let st paul enjoy his last days of being remembered. He is well known to be a woman hater a marriage hater and a first class anti nature! And another, No one can choose to be gay! you did not choose to be a man or your sexual orientation. Nature does it for you under certain conditions. Please try to understand this very important fact. No one chooses race parents colour of skin sexual orientation etc etc. These are imposed on us through nature. you are right on one point when a gay likes to blare it out to the whole world to attract attention. That is distasteful and that causes serious problems. it creates minorities and instead of mingling within the social framework creates divisions and hatred.

Martin Spiteri

Aug 24th 2009, 19:21

@ joe galea I was making a point in regards serious loss of values in our society which is causing a lot of hardships to those who are living a quiet life!! Please read carefully before being misled.

A.Grima

Aug 24th 2009, 17:34

The Holy Bible speaks about gays, in St.Paul letters. Repent in order to be awarded. Anyway, if a person wants to be gay, he can do so, but why is it that gays want to say or show off they are gay. I do not go saying that I fancy every women I meet!! Anyway, any vandal act is not right.

Martin Spiteri

Aug 24th 2009, 13:51

@ nick cachia

to stop being flamboyant and frivolous means to avoid attracting too much the attention. Sex can be a very hot subject and homosexuals have the tendency to be very outgoing and very colourful. Society has not yet developed the appopriate psychological tools especially here in Malta. It is sad that church teachings are influwencing the weak mind. IT leads to a lot of unhappiness. Gay bashings are sad instances and are the result of extreme intollerance and can expose a truth on the gay basher himself. I recall Quentin Crisp in saying "gay bashers are queer" I support Andre whoever he might be, Those people who did the act will no doubt one day be discovered as very interested in gay life. It is too good to be true but most cases are like that. No hetro would every bother to dedicate time to be such a coward.
Education is the key to human knowledge. We have a duty to know ourselves as oscar wilde used to say. There is nothing wrong in being gay. Only in denying being one can lead to unhappy marriages and very unfortunate circumstances.

Joe Galea

Aug 24th 2009, 13:33

@Martin Spiteri: What do those single mothers who abouse the system by getting pregnant have to do with gay rights? Gay rights do not mean compensation but rights, such as recognition of the partner as next of kin, etc. I didn't get the frivulous part. Can you deifne what is this frivolosity? As far as I know, if a gay looks gay he is just being himself. What's wrong in that? If many gays are fashion conscious...what's wrong in that? If they have taste more than the straight people...what's wrong in that? I think many straight people envy gay people as the latter feel good with themselves (in most cases) and feel relax about what they are. There are many straights who don't feel the same so hatred starts cropping up. Live and let live should be everyone's philosophy and also be in peace with yourself and your surroundings as in Bhuddism philosphy. Good luck Andre', hope you get justice.

Nick Cachia

Aug 24th 2009, 12:15

I believe everyone has the right to be as long as this does not harm others.

What does stopping being flamboyant and frivolous mean? Does it justify intruding into one's property and vandalising it? Should those who are not frivolous vandalize those who are? Should this intollerant attitude be extended to heterosexuals as well?

I am sorry about thisincident Andre'. I hope you will have the opportuinity to meet, here in Malta, more individuals who appreciate diversity.

Martin Spiteri

Aug 24th 2009, 12:08

Another factor which seem to be very evident in Malta is the lack of police support in such anti crime . It is well known in the Gay world that police officers are an attraction, Officers know it . So poor PC Plod has to be very carefull if he happens to be a dishy one and if he likes the D&G style of tight jeans and abdominals. It can reveal his tastes and a very dark black sunglasses can make it easier for him to feast his eyes on beauty around. This may sound amusing but many foreigners who come to Malta love to encounter a PC plod in uniform . We do have dishy police officers and they too love their own sex sometimes. Ahh humanity is so diverse and so complex , yet we turn a blind eye to incidents to avoid revealing ourselves in doing so. I suppose Malta can be quite fascinating when it comes to such intrigue. The police should not be afraid to take action against such acts, after all to be homosexual is not a right . It is a natural existence. It should be left in harmony.

Martin Spiteri

Aug 24th 2009, 11:51

Gays can be very creative and very stylish, But they should stop this carnivalesque style of declaring their lifestyles as if to prove something. The rule to be faithfull applies to all. Society should be tollerant and the Church should start to be less afraid of the truth. The vatican needs a whole revamp and white wash. In dishing out encyclicals and dogmatic man made ideas fool only the brain washed. In the EU the church is laughed at and only countries like Malta is backward enough to believe gouder on tv ( definitely not me ) and I also want to address certain comments by others who now seem to know it all. I cannot forget certain names who went frantic in the referendum for the EU , these were the same person who want to promote gay respect. It is through the EU that we can achieve some rights and not outside of it. The EU is much ahead in tollerance and integration. Just look at the so modern USA . They would have burned the house to the ground and not paint graffiti!
Another is that. people are afraid of what they do not understand.

Martin Spiteri

Aug 24th 2009, 11:39

Homosexuality has been with humanity since the very beginning of existence. It has been persecuted and misunderstood. But Gays are partly to blame as well. They do not live as others should. Society values in Malta in particular have gone berserk. Just look at the ammount of unmarried mothers. They expect the state to feel sorry for them? Should we ? Should we suffer because of their promiscuity? Is it my fault that mothers let their 15 year old girls dress like whores and let them astray to come back fully fertilised awaiting the next budget to approve their subsidised electricity bills and their social welfare allowances and their home given by the state? All this causes serious cracks in all sectors. It is wrong to blame all single mothers. After all there are genuine cases , but can we afford this new culture of getting pregnant as early as 15, and expect the state to be caring? Is it my fault that I dislike this kind of life style which is hindering my own life and my pocket? Gays should start learning that being gay has its own rules and should stop being flamboyant and frivolous.

marthese mussett

Aug 24th 2009, 10:59

Three facts shock me in this story.1.The hatred.Andre seems like a nice person so why hate him,so what if he s gay?2.It costs alot of money to restore walls like these,but the evil person who did this made sure that he ruined a large part of this wall without consideration.3.THE INDIFFERENCE OF THE POLICE.HOW WOULD THEY FEEL IF THIS WAS DONE ON THEIR FACADE????OR THEIR MUMS OR THEIR SISTERS OR WHOEVER?Bet they ll swear a nd curse and grit their teeth and vow that they ll get "the person who did this".I am in no way saying that our police dont work hard but I think they could ve done their bit.Dont want to sound patronising,but I think they could ve asked a few neighbours if they saw someone suspicious entering the house.Or took pictures for further investigation.Vandalim is vandalism and this person should be caught a d have his face published in the papers.Maybe he could give us a reason why he did this cowardly act.Andre please dont give up.You will meet nice people too.We are not all like that.Good Luck

Al Buhagiar

Aug 24th 2009, 10:32

I know ''Andre'' very well and my heart really does go out to him!

He, as with all of us gay men, is a very emotionally strong man and incidences of this sort only makes us stronger!

Shame on the person/s who committed this horrid! I have a question or two to ask the person/s who did this: Why no gays? What are you exactly afraid of? What bothers you with having gay neighbours?

Martin Spiteri

Aug 24th 2009, 10:10

@ Robert Callus

I completely agree with you and I share your comment 100%. Patrick Attard has shown signs of fanaticism himself and when I saw his performance and his intollerance to the Catholic church, he is doing the same mistake. I am a catholic and I declare I do not like to hear our pope or any other clergy talk about man made laws. They shame religion and ridicule all that we believe and hold dear. I beleve that there is space for gays and they should follow the same rules of love and avoid promiscuity and spectacular attention. I despise gay parades, they only draw attention and create misunderstandings. There are no straight prides. There is only one society. There is unity in diversity, and one should accept diversity and realise that in diversity we survive. The rule of love and dedication applies to all and gays should follow that rule too and stick to one partner and not change partners every 2 months. It creates pain and resentment. True love is forever and by the way , there is sacrifice as well for those who dedicate themselves to their loved one.

Martin Spiteri

Aug 24th 2009, 09:51

It is evident that Malta has serious signs of being a very backward country. We fail in most areas. When it comes to sexual orientations, I have personally discovered that those who persecute show signs of being so themselves. I wont be surprised that the perpetrators are homosexuals themselves. Malta lacks tollerance in Many fields and we are in a very serious situation. Other countries are Catholic more than we are and they are more tollerant and full of respect. I declare those who point their fingers on Gays mostly are Gays themselves. I Have all the respect for gays. Gays form part of this great creation. There is a place for gays. What I dislike are those gay parades, which shame and belittle gays who are serious and have a decent way of life and form part of the social order. Most gays who speak for other gays in talk shows facing rev gouder are no match for this intollerant fanatic priest who believes more in the man made law than the truth and the Love of Christ. I wont elaborate on any church but anyone who has eyes can see what goes on behind scenes.

Vania Lamanna

Aug 24th 2009, 09:47

breaking and entering,trespassing, vandalism and a hate crime(this was incited by hatred after all) and the police is indifferent to it all...Andre, you will encounter a high level of ignorant and biased people on the island, but they are not all like that and i just hope this horrible and despicable incident will be the only time you have to endure such hatred here. I wish you and your partner much joy and happiness in your new home, please try to not let this mar your joy and pride in the house you have worked so hard and lovingly at restoring.

Reuben Abela

Aug 24th 2009, 09:14

From the shape of the letter G it doesn't look like this was made from a very young person...

M Xuereb

Aug 24th 2009, 08:17

@Mr Callus.

All the more reason then for the State to separate itself from the Church and bring about the long overdue Civil Rights to which,as Citizens,we are all entitled to. It would be right also to amend the Constitution so that no particular Religion has priority over another,and furthermore, Religion must not be a factor when laws are enacted by the State.

Silence in the hope that these 'problems' will go away is no longer an option.They won't. The longer these rights are left the more ridiculous and unjust we become.

Minorities have as much right as everybody else to be protected by the State and to be treated as equals in the eyes of the law.

Joseph Ellul-Sydney

Aug 24th 2009, 08:12

It is a pity that such a nice building has been defaced by a cowardly SOB. This had nothing to do with gender or sexual preference. This is pure envy and hate. This is the work of an anarchist who has startred his wayward life into further evil and criminal acts. You can actually read the venom on the walls. The O is joined and almost circular. This was an act of calculated hate. If I was the police I would try to find this deviat so as to stop any further acts of vindication. This work of graffiti was not done by any kid. This was a grown up person with further intent to do more damage. It can be the beginning of some really bad things to happen and not necessarily to gays.

Karl Axisa

Aug 24th 2009, 07:44

To me this is just a cover up Andre. Someone is after your property and wants you to sell it in no time at a very reduced price. I suggest playing his/her game. Set a low price tag and I bet that the culprit will be amongst the first to show up.

victor vella

Aug 24th 2009, 06:21

Andre or whatever your name is, I despise any type of discrimination.I am not gay but absolutely condemm any acts against my fellow humans or animals.May you learn to accept the fact that some idiot had the cheek to enter your house and do this stupid act.God bless you

louis Zammit

Aug 23rd 2009, 23:11

what a COWARD........... and how sick is this or these persons that wrote this......

may i comment on all the people writing about catholic, saints and fireworks.....what has this to do with No gays on the wall.......sorry many Maltese are catholic and good ones and they still LOVE GAYS to start with MY FAMILY....not all maltese are ignorant

Graham Crocker

Aug 23rd 2009, 22:37

I pity the guy who did this. Imagine what an empty and shallow life he must have to wake up one morning and decide that the best thing he could do was spray a hateful comment on another persons wall.

Robert Callus

Aug 23rd 2009, 19:22

Dr Inġ. Patrick Attard

I understand you are hurt by things said and done by people in the clergy, up to the pope himself. However I think you focus too much on the church. Many Catholics do not hold that view, and unfortunately some atheists/agnostics happen to be homophobic.

I think homophobia is due to cultural ignorance, partly due to the teachings on the Catholic church, but there are many other factors.

Ms P M Graham

Aug 23rd 2009, 19:02

Someone's son or daughter did this. How proud their parents must be!!!

How sad that they have been raised to think this sort of judgmental/criminal behavior is right.

It's okay to vandalize another persons property but it's not alright to be Gay?? Talk about double standards!!

Seems to me that it may be wise to examine in closer detail this graffiti against Friday's news story: http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20090821/local/deaf-ears for similarities, because if this is the case it could well be the start of something that needs to be nipped in the bud immediately.

To the couple involved: Try and put this behind you. Easier said than done I know but don't let this control your life here in Malta. There are fools everywhere and I suspect you have a whole lot more people disgusted at what happened here than applauding the foolishness.

T.gauci

Aug 23rd 2009, 18:31

@Lawrence Bonello,Stephen Peters

Get your facts straight, i am not Catholic it is not right to blame this on Catholics individuals without any evidence. I assume you 2 are not Catholics so why on earth would you speak on behalf of Catholics.....Homosexuality is wrong according to the Bible and that's what Christians believe so both of your arguments are irrelevant to the Christian faith...you think their beliefs are disrespectful and offensive to you...but that's what they taught to believe, Everyone have the freedom to believe in whatever he/she wants.

Dr Inġ. Patrick Attard

Aug 23rd 2009, 18:26

@ T. Gauci

Of course Catholism has a lot to do with this.
This is just one of the many examples:

On the 1st October 1986 Cardinal Ratzinger (now Pope Benedict XVI) sent a letter to all Bishops saying that it is understandable that hate-crimes against gays increase if they want more civil rights.

"But the proper reaction to crimes committed against homosexual persons should not be to claim that the homosexual condition is not disordered. When such a claim is made and when homosexual activity is consequently condoned, or when civil legislation is introduced to protect behavior to which no one has any conceivable right, neither the Church nor society at large should be surprised when other distorted notions and practices gain ground, and irrational and violent reactions increase." - Ratzinger

See complete letter with highlighted excerpts:
http://patrickattard.blogspot.com/2009/01/vatican-letter-to-bishops-of-catholic.html

Dr Inġ. Patrick Attard

Aug 23rd 2009, 18:18

It seems the Police can't do much to help us. They couldn't prosecute on a book sold by the Media Centre telling God sent AIDS to kill all gays:

See letter from Inspector here:

http://patrickattard.blogspot.com/2009/05/police-letter-regarding-book-catholic.html

There has so far been no official apology from the Church, just Mgr Gouder saying the book went against the teachings of the Church but the person who translated parts of it in Maltese wan't sacked either.

I urge Parliament to introduce a law on homophobia and transphobia ASAP.

And once again thank you Simon Busuttil for your objections on resolutions regarding homophobia in the EU parliament.

Lawrence Bonello

Aug 23rd 2009, 16:59

@ T.Gauci & C.Camilleri
I NEVER implied that Catholics, or still less the Church authorities had anything to do with this! God forbid!
However, our boasts of being more Catholic than the Pope sound very hollow in the light of the latest wave of homophobia, racism and similiar phenomena!!
It all goes to show how superficial our religious sentiments are! Vari jizfnu, murtali u duhhan!!

malcolm seychell

Aug 23rd 2009, 16:54

It is madness not to take these cases seriously since the criminal who did this crime entered his house illegally.

Personally I do not understand why some people hate gays so much. Many of them offer a contribution towards society, and obey the laws of the country.

Stephen Peters

Aug 23rd 2009, 16:29

Mr Gauci, the Roman Catholic Church continues to teach its members to believe that Gay people are disordered - this despite the fact that many of its priests (and Bishops) may be gay. So, it would not be surprising if those who defaced Andre's home were Roman catholics (especially given the high percentage of Maltese who are.)
It is very encouraging to read the mainly supportive and positive posts commenting on this news item. I wonder when (?if?) Malta will ever move forward on the issue of equality regardless of race/religion/gender/sexuality? While the doctrine of the Roman Catholic Church is enshrined in the Constitution, it will be a controversial road to follow. Who would be right? Who should be believed = the Government or the Pope?
I find it hard to believe in the God who has created all people, but who does not then love them equally. Surely, He/She does. A belief in equality for all in the Love of God, regardless of race/ religion/Gender/sexuality is at the heart of the Christian Gospel.

John Borg

Aug 23rd 2009, 16:23

Our police may not be institutionally corrupt like those of other banana republics but it is institutionally incompetent.

c. camilleri

Aug 23rd 2009, 16:08

@ Lawrence Bonello. What has the catholic faith to do with this? In Malta like all other places there are all sorts of persons embracing difference religions like Catholics, Muslims, Protestants and unbelievers too. So please do not rush with your wrong assumption next time.

Paul Attard Baldacchino

Aug 23rd 2009, 15:47

How horrible! Hand writing in general would be different from the person's normal writing style when sprayed in such large font on a wall. However it would be easy to identify the individual by looking at the way he wrote the G and the Y, if you had access to some of his handwritten material. This is unless he wrote the G and the Y pursposefully different not to be identified, but this is highly unlikely.

Andrew Paris

Aug 23rd 2009, 15:33

One clue to this crime is the letter G. What redneck spells a G like that.
If someone out there reading this article knows someone who spells a G like this, report it to the police.

T.gauci

Aug 23rd 2009, 15:10

@Lawrence Bonello

What Catholicism has to do with this, how do you know the people who did this are Catholics ? acts like this happens in every country especially in the United States. you are being judgmental against the Catholics, shame on you.

Ernest Vella

Aug 23rd 2009, 15:10

Lawrence Bonello....int taf daqsi jekk hux aktar minni li l-Knisja m'ghanda xejn x'taqsam ma dan kollu....ghax huwa nuqqas ta mhabba lejn il-proxxmu li nheddu jew inbezzghu lil haddiehor li huwa differenti....dan ma jfissirx imma li tippretendi li l-Knisja ma tghidx li l-atti omosesswali huma hziena...mela nsejt x'tghid il-Bibbja....jew il-Bibbja nzeffnuha fejn jaqblilna....forsi dan mhux attentat biex nzeffnu l-Knisja darb'ohra fin-nofs? Nittama li l-pulizija jaqbdu lil min ghamel dan l-att halli naraw jekk baghtuhx "tal-knisja".

Joseph Carmel Chetcuti

Aug 23rd 2009, 15:06

Much has changed in Malta over the last few decades and the comments contained herein are evidence of this change. It is a pity that the government continues to lag behind community attitudes. Time to put your words into action, Dr Gonzi! Introduce anti-vilification laws and make sure no one uses God's name to promote intolerance. No doubt yesterday's conservatives who think God is on their side will continue to resist.

Paul Barrett

Aug 23rd 2009, 14:38

As a lesbian trapped in a male body, I am really disgusted at the discrimination that others have for anyone different in colour, religion, age or sexuality to their own beliefs.
Just why cannot people just live their own lives without resorting to bullying or condemning others.

J. Borg

Aug 23rd 2009, 13:45

I have pity towards the sick mind who did this act
sick....but alas committed to what he/she believes

however I utterly condemn and am disgusted by the police's attitude
these officers are paid and given rights to protect citizens and trace sick minds to enable them receive the mental treatment they need.

Mr. Rizzo wake up to the bunch of irresponsible men/woman you are responsible of!

D Vella

Aug 23rd 2009, 13:36

@Sandro Mangion

and yet Malta has done no such thing.There is no protection for minorities.There are no laws guaranteeing the rights of minorities when it comes to same sex partnerships or divorce. Homosexuality in the eyes of most Maltese is still abhorent and prejudice is rife.

The European Union of which,if I remember correctly you were all, for has done precious little for these people.Gays and people whose marriage has broken down are still having to leave the Island to seek justice elsewhere,at least those that can afford to.

Eve Bajada

Aug 23rd 2009, 13:25

"Ignorant Cowards "

Sandro Mangion

Aug 23rd 2009, 12:36

The first of the European Union's Copenhagen Criteria, which countries applying for membership must fulfil before being allowed to join the Union (and which Malta has therefore, officially, fulfilled), requires "stability of institutions guaranteeing democracy, the rule of law, human rights and respect for and protection of minorities".

Kenneth Galea

Aug 23rd 2009, 12:26

Welcome to Malta.
The police who looked at this case should be sacked immediately otherwise we will never learn. I believe our police force ought to be sent on intense training courses overseas to understand that they have a duty to carry out regardless of sex, religion and colour of the victim.

Lawrence Bonello

Aug 23rd 2009, 12:17

No gays, no blacks, no this, no that!
Cattolicissima Malta!!
L-aqwa li nzeffnu l-vari u naharqu n-nar!!
And we dare call ourselves "European"!

brian grima

Aug 23rd 2009, 11:54

Little minds think litle things......don't panic Andre id-dinja dejjem kienet mimlija tigieg u tibqa! Pacenzja!

Mario Tabone-Vassallo

Aug 23rd 2009, 11:15

Tassew trid tkun mohh ta' tigiega biex taghmel hsara lil min ghamillek hsara, ahseb u ara x'tigiega trid tkun biex taghmel hsara lil min ma ghamillek xejn

Charles Micallef

Aug 23rd 2009, 11:10

The only people who need help in this case are the vandals and all those who harbour anti gays mentalities, they need to re-educate themselves and come to join those living in the real world!

L. Saliba

Aug 23rd 2009, 10:21

Shame on the cowards who committed this act and shame on the police force for encouraging such acts through their lack of action. What's the point of having a police force if we can't rely on it for protection?

Robert Callus

Aug 23rd 2009, 10:14

The indifference of the police officer is despicable. I'm referring to the individual not the whole Police Corps.
This is not a case of vandalism only. Far from that. It is a hate crime intended to instill fear on the victim, which it did.

@Kris Tabone
Definitely, the majority of the Maltese are not homophobic, racist or ignorant. However this minority of people doing such shameful acts seem to get away with it most of the time.

I urge the police to take such cases - vandalism used as a threat, includin arson - to be taken with utmost seriousness. Apart from harassing minorities, these also include instilling fear in people wanting to exercise their freedom of expression or obeying the rule of law such as Birdlife members, local counsellors and others

Ruby Jenner

Aug 23rd 2009, 10:14

Why do some people feel they have the right to interfere with how other's live their lives. To pass judgement and cause misery for no other reason than they don't agree how some people choose to live. Ariadne, keep your head held high and good luck in your new home.

vincent a galea

Aug 23rd 2009, 10:11

What a sad story! Gays are as normal as heterosexuals. I know and have many gay friends. Sometimes I even get on better with these friends than with my heterosexual ones!
It is so silly and stupid to consider them any different. It is better that the people who committed the crime look at themselves in the mirror and ponder the failures that exist in their life and allow other human beings to get on with their lives freely and the way they want to live it!!
Dear Andre, rest assured that the majority of the Maltese people are intelligent enough to leave gays of any nationality in peace!

carmen caruana

Aug 23rd 2009, 10:02

Shame on you......
I'll never be ashamed of what I am!! Gays and str8's have to be equal!!

Kris Tabone

Aug 23rd 2009, 09:50

This is disgusting and primitive behaviour. Not all Maltese people are homophobic, racist and ignorant, which is what one may assume reading certain stories that have been appearing in the papers this summer regarding ethnic minorities, co-habiting couples and now, gay people.

Others may disagree with certain positions and points of view, but this is illegal. I hope the perp(s) is caught and charged.

Joseph Schembri

Aug 23rd 2009, 09:47

I think gays, especially those in a loving relationship add richness and diversity to Malta. I would love to have an open and out gay couple living next to my home. It is very often the case that beautiful homes, such as this seems to be, are appreciated and lovingly restored by gay people who seem to have more sensitivity to beauty.

It is despicable that the police do not take such attacks seriously especially when this man clearly said that the range of suspects can be narrowed down.

To the hateful idiot who did this - I can tell from your handwriting that you are immature or that you never properly grew up.

To the man who owns this house - don't let this incident put you off Malta please - most of us are not like that.