I’m writing in response to the parent whose letter was published Sept. 17 (Sequim Gazette, “Strangers photographing kids: creepy,” Letters to the Editor).

In it, she said that people have no right to snap pictures of children not known to them. She also said, “I am NOT OK with random old men video recording my kids playing soccer.” However, she states, “If it had been the grandpa of a team mate, that is a completely different situation.”

First, it is not against the law to photograph any person either known or unknown to him/her in a public place. I’m a female amateur photographer and I’ve taken candid shots of people all over the world in the past 40 years. However, even if I’m taking a photo of a pet, I ask permission of the owner or subject, give them my card and offer to send a copy to them.

Most importantly, this parent needs to be educated about pedophiles. Statistically speaking, it is more likely that an offender will be the “grandpa” of a team member than a stranger. It is also more likely that an offender will not be a “random old man,” but a white male between 20-40 years of age.

Much attention is directed at pedophilia (rightfully so) however, the downside is that it has caused many parents to fear a “bogeyman” around every corner. Common sense and education is the best way to keep our kids safe, not hysteria, ageism and stereotyping.

Evan Cummings

Sequim