From: Interfaith Working Group Subject: IWG KBRT Letter Date: Sun, 7 Sep 1997 18:21:39 -0400 (EDT) The following went out on IWG letterhead listing 10 congregations and religious organizations and 46 clergy from 14 faiths and denominations. If you are in the general Philadelphia area and represent a congregation or religious organization or are clergy, let us know if you want to be added - all faiths are welcome. We will also be happy to help start similar organizations in other areas. September 5, 1997 Ed Personius Station Manager KBRT Radio - 740 AM 3183D Airway Ave. Costa Mesa, CA 92626 Dear Mr. Personius: It was reported in the Los Angeles Times on September 5 that on August 29, Rich Agozino "urged callers to write to their state legislators asking them to enact laws that would punish homosexuality according to biblical law, meaning capital punishment." You reportedly characterized this statement as "encouraging listeners to follow the word of God," and "an honest dialogue concerning Christian beliefs." American civil law is based on and restricted by the constitution of the United States, not a single group's understanding of the Bible (and many other groups--Christian and non-Christian--have different understandings of that book). It is that constitution which grants you free speech, the free exercise of religion and freedom of the press. However, freedom of speech must be used responsibly, and in this particular case, Mr. Agozino's comments could be interpreted by some people as permission and/or encouragement to commit acts of violence against sexual minorities. As the station manager, you should carefully consider whether your employees are being appropriate, civil, and responsible in their on-air remarks. If you are really interested in an honest dialogue concerning Christian beliefs and sexuality, we would suggest giving air time to Christians who support full equality for sexual minorities. Sincerely, Barbara Purdom Christopher Purdom Interfaith Working Group Coordinators -- Interfaith Working Group Religious organizations, congregations iwg@libertynet.org and clergy supporting gay rights, http://www.libertynet.org/~iwg/ reproductive freedom, and the 215-235-3050 separation of church and state.