Top McCain Ally Held "Slave Auction" as School Fundraiser

Although right-wing religious zealot "Pastor" John Hagee has held a slave auction as a fundraising event for a school, John McCain recently appeared on national television with Hagee to accept the pastor's endorsement in McCain's candidacy for the presidency. The New York Times reported,

After criticism from black leaders and others, a television evangelist apologized today for inviting his parishioners to participate in a "slave auction" to raise money for high school students.

We certainly did not intend to offend anyone and apologize to anyone offended," said the Rev. John Hagee of Cornerstone Church, a nondenominational church.

Mr. Hagee, who is white, wrote last week in a newsletter that "slavery in America is returning to Cornerstone." The students at the private Cornerstone High School were expected to work at the home or business of the highest bidder.

Another source said,

The Rev. John Hagee of Cornerstone Church in San Antonio was attempting to raise funds for seniors at Cornerstone High School for their senior trip.

The uproar about the event prompted Hagee to rename it a 'student auction." In his church bulletin, Hagee had publicized the event by writing that slavery in America is returning to Cornerstone. Make plans to come and go home with a slave." At the church event, students would be auctioned off in front of the congregation and expected to work at the home or business of the highest bidder. BNET via FindArticles.