(Editors Note: While we are not foolish enough to believe that the NAACP or ADL will ever give us an open public platform to defend ourselves with, we fully intend on making a point of having our presence felt and our voices heard at this event, one way or another. Especially since it is partially in regards to our positive activism in that area.)

The director of the local chapter of the Keystone State Skinheads says he’s willing to speak at a diversity summit proposed by the Wilkes-Barre Chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People.

Ron Felton, president of the local NAACP, said he wouldn’t make the decision regarding the Skinheads’ participation, and is leaving it up to the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission.

Felton has set a tentative date of June 29 for the meeting which he said was motivated by several events: the recent vandalism at Congregation Ohav Zedek synagogue and the placement of banners and fliers throughout the Wyoming Valley. The banners, which carry messages such as “Preserve Our Heritage,” list the Skinheads Web site.

“If (Ron Felton) would allow us to, that would be great,” said Steve Smith, director of the local chapter of the Keystone State Skinheads. “You have to keep things balanced, and this is a great way to do that.”

Two teen girls – one a self-proclaimed Nazi – were recently arrested and charged with spray-painting anti-Semitic words and symbols on the Wilkes-Barre synagogue and another building. One of the suspects, Nora Rynkiewicz, 18, waived her right to a preliminary hearing on Friday. The other is a 17-year-old juvenile.

“We see these things, and we don’t know what to do,” Felton said. “What is the most effective way to respond and how do we help the young people who are being targeted?”

Smith said the Skinheads are trying to shake the stigma that its members are like the skinheads in movies such as “American History X.”

“This past year might be the best for the KSS, in regards to activism and response from supporters,” Smith said. “More people are joining up.”

Smith says there’s always negativity associated with being a part of the group. When members are called “racists” or “bigots,” he said it’s a source of name calling for individuals who can’t argue for their points, Smith said.

“If I’m wrong about something, just tell me. Don’t call me names. That’s childish.”

Details are still being worked out, but Felton hopes to invite representatives of the state Human Relations Commission, the Luzerne County Diversity Task Force and the Anti-Defamation League. Felton would like to hold the event at a local college.

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