Let's Be Fair

Today's story is plucked from the headlines. Well not recent ones but I'm behind on the news. Besides it's a timeless story about American justice. A teenage boy from Everett, Pennsylvania faces up to two years in juvenile prison after posting pictures on Facebook. Child Porn? Theft? Burglary? Drug Use? Assault? No, the pictures show him simulating a sex act with a statue of Jesus. The statue is kneeling in front of "Love in the Name of Christ" religious organization in Everett. The charge is Desecration of a Venerated Object. Pennsylvania law defines desecration as "Defacing, damaging, polluting or otherwise physically mistreating in a way that the actor know will outrage the sensibilities of persons likely to observe or discover the action." Here is one of the pictures posted by the accused.

I can see where many would fail to find the humor in this. Maybe it should fall into that category of boys will be boys. Two years in juvenile prison seems to be a bit much. In order to insure fairness perhaps authorities in Pennsylvania should go after these folks who are desecrating one of our cultural icons. A figure who represents the United States in countries around the world.

Ronald McDonald is being subjected to similar conduct in all of these pictures. Where is the justice for him? Where is the outrage? It certainly doesn't appear on Ronald's face. The smile on his face should in no way influence our decision to go after his abusers. The pictures clearly show that Ronald gets around as they are taken in various locations. He is being abused by multiple people and both sexes. They are portraying Ronald as a man whore. Why are no charges brought?

I don't think Ronald was asking to see this fellas "McNuggets". The look of appreciation on Ronald's face should not lessen the scorn and outrage we feel.

I know some will attempt to tarnish Ronald's image with pictures like this one. Sully his reputation as a performer at children's parties. But who among us hasn't had our weak moments? Being weak doesn't give others permission to violate us personally or sexually. Stand up and demand justice for Ronald.