The recent malicious destruction at All Families Healthcare in downtown Kalispell could be described as vandalism, senseless violence or just plain criminal behavior.

In fact it was an act of terrorism fostered by the mindset of religious extremists in Western Montana. The kind who think God is on their side and therefore hatefull violent acts are righteous in some warped way.

This attitude leads many to condone any type of outrage in the name of their beliefs. Not so very different from flying jets into buildings in a religious fervor.

This is not the first such attack against Susan and others who provide safe and legal abortions. Those who not only believe in a woman’s right to choose, but who work to guarantee that right, need to know their safety and the rights of their patients are important to our community.

Susan has beem my primary care provider for years. She is thorough, compassionate, and listens to her patient’s concerns. She provides care for families, works to better our community, and puts her safety and livelihood on the line because she empathizes with others.

As a secular humanist, belief in God or gods isn’t necessary to conduct my life with reason, ethics, and compassion. I do not judge others and would never deny anyone the right to their beliefs. But I would note that religion often fosters war, poverty, and church-sanctioned prejudice. Religious intolerance has often divided communities and even families.

Hate crime in the name of any god is still hateful.

Those who feel otherwise can picket, pray, protest and work to change the law, but they must speak out against violence to achieve their goals.

Harrison is a resident of Kalispell