Were the recent hate crimes in New York City a backlash against LGBT advances?

“No. People who commit hate crimes are ignorant. They probably aren’t even aware of advances achieved by the LGBT community. They’re in their own little world. I just think hate crimes are a reflection of people’s ignorance.”

“Yes, because LGBT issues have gotten so much attention recently. It’s radically polarizing people on both sides. Extremists on the fringe are being affected by this attention and acting out their beliefs in a violent manner.”

“Yes. There’s been so much publicity. When you shine a spotlight on something, you’re stoking the flames. The backlash is definitely to be expected. The same thing happens in the African-American community, unfortunately. It’s just human nature.”

“Yes, because a lot of people are against gay rights. The more you push for something, the more you antagonize folks. People are getting intimidated because gayness is becoming the norm. So you’re getting more and more nutcakes committing hate crimes.”