Understanding racial violence

I'm writing in response to Lynna Van der-Zee Oehmke's letter on Dec. 14. First I do not wish to condone the vigilante/mob action that occurred in Sydney recently after a young lifesaver had been bashed at the beach by an Arabic youth gang the previous week. Gutless attacks on innocent people makes me sick and ashamed.

Nor do I condone the reaction by Lebanese gangs in smashing property and vehicles, the stabbing/bashing of innocent residents on a Sunday night in retaliation. Nor do I condone the revenge attack by shooting at a Christian church where children were singing Christmas carols on a Monday night. Nor do I condone the burning down of a Christian Church in Lakemba on a Wednesday night.

But may I suggest that for Lynna to understand the situation that occurred in Sydney that she takes the opportunity to visit the suburb of Lakemba. There I'm sure she will find an environment that is interesting for a Dutch women, especially after dark. The Lebanese boys will love you!.

JOHN MACMILLAN Sydney, Australia