I am a dog lover and have adopted and rescued abused dogs. I believe that inhumane treatment to animals is counter to the best interests of our society. On the other hand, I do believe in proportionate justice and the Michael Vick case is a horrible example of disproportionate justice against blacks and its consequences could be profound.
There are many cultures in the world that accept and promote cruelty to animals. In some countries of Hispanic origin, bullfighting is promoted as a national sport. And dogs are eaten in some Asian countries. It is my understanding that dog fighting is part of the African-American culture despite the fact that it is a federal crime. That does not make it right, but it does explain in part Vick's participation in this event.
President Bush commuted the sentence of Irving "Scooter" Libby for crimes he committed knowingly which compromised our national security. Surely he could find it in his heart to use the same rationalization for commuting Libby's sentence. If Libby paid enough of a price for his crime, surely Vick should be given the same consideration since he has lost his over $125 million and his career.