Editor:

In response to Gary Gilbert's article, "Race complaint groundless," I strongly disagree. There is racism in Antioch, Brentwood and Oakley.

I have and still experience racism and I'm Hispanic. I'm not Section 8, but I'm considering renting my parents' house to the Section 8 program when my parents feel that they have had enough of your community. The Section 8 program is a good program.

The police coming into your community late at night has at times stopped me. They always ask me if I have been drinking. I'm made to get out of my car for license and registration. I suppose that your community wants to take possession of my car. Perhaps they think I'm an illegal. It doesn't bother me; I'm amused!

What does bother me is Gary Gilbert and members of the UCBN organization with their racism, elitism and intense hostility toward others that may be poor or who may not meet their organization's standards. Gilbert, you tell folks to look in the mirror. You state that these folks are criminals; blast them for their behavior for being poor and asking for "hand outs." Are you judge, jury and executioner? Who anointed you?

Perhaps you and your organization only want "saintly" people living in your community. Is that your idea of what utopia should be? Gary Gilbert, you and your organization do not speak for me or my family. Christ died on the cross beside two criminals. Who are you to judge others? Your campaign against Section 8 and the less fortunate is disturbing.

I was pleased to hear that there will be an investigation on this matter. I will be praying that soon there will be an inquiry on you and your organization, Gary Gilbert. Housing discrimination is a crime.

Alicia Soto Neal