‘Hate’ cartoon is offensive

I found the June 14 “HATE” editorial cartoon (spelled out with automatic rifles) to be dangerously misleading. The implication is that weapons themselves are hateful. This is ludicrous!

All mechanical weapons are inanimate objects, just like automobiles, airplanes, computers, etc. Yes, all of the above may be used to harm or kill people, but airplanes in the hands of terrorist caused America’s worst single attack loss of life since Pearl Harbor. And automobiles kill more people every year than automatic rifles. When will we see cartoons about them?

As a United States Marine Corps Vietnam veteran, I find the cartoon offensive to everyone who ever carried a weapon in defense of his or her country. Such cartoons are not only malicious and divisive, but also communicate a false message! Every tool may be used for good or evil, depending on the hands guiding it.

This story was originally published June 15, 2016 at 10:12 AM with the headline "‘Hate’ cartoon is offensive."