I was discouraged to read in the paper about Wal-Mart’s decision to continue selling the video game “Grand Theft Auto” (Dec. 13). Although the game promotes antisocial behavior by glorifying stealing as well as hate crimes by having Cuban and Haitian gangs trying to kill each other, Wal-Mart said it sells well.

A second article in the paper told how two 15-year-old boys had been arrested carrying swords and guns while attempting a carjacking.

I am not saying that exposure to violence and glorifying hate justifies criminal activity nor do I want censorship over what people can buy. But, as a teacher trying to help students unite as a community to create a peaceful arena in which to learn, I find it discouraging that I have to compete with games like “Grand Theft Auto” that have a different message. Producing games with a message of unity and brotherhood that are just as exciting and full of color and sound is something that teachers could never afford.

How would Wal-Mart and parents feel if the game had been designed with all white, Catholic and Protestant gangs stealing cars and screaming “kill” at each other? Does the fact that the violence is couched in terms of minorities make it less offensive? I do not expect Wal-Mart to see that the game is repulsive. I do hope there are enough moral adults who refuse to buy the game so that it is unprofitable to carry it.

Sally Speich, Farmington

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