From: Interfaith Working Group Subject: IWG Tulsa World Letter Date: Sat, 17 May 1997 23:44:23 -0400 (EDT) The following went out on IWG letterhead listing 10 congregations and religious organizations and 39 clergy from 13 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. May 17, 1997 Tulsa World Box 1770 Tulsa, OK 74102 Dear Editors: In recent letters regarding "Ellen," some readers stated that homosexuality offends Biblical standards and the moral conscience of America. The people of this country do not have a single moral conscience, especially when it comes to sexual issues. America does have a strong civil liberties tradition which celebrates freedom of speech, freedom of religion, and freedom of association, and affirms and celebrates the contributions of all individuals who work within the system and respect the rights and property of others. Ellen DeGeneres has indeed provided an excellent moral role model for our children by speaking up for her rights, her self-worth and the rights and basic worth of other people, despite the risk of condemnation from those with different views, and who do not see the value of diversity. 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.