From: Interfaith Working Group Subject: IWG Chicago Tribune Matthew Shepard Date: Wed, 21 Oct 1998 00:38:54 -0400 (EDT) October 20, 1998 The Chicago Tribune 435 N. Michigan Avenue Chicago, IL 60611 Dear Editors: We share Clarence Page's concern about hate-crime laws; they should not be written in a way that restricts free speech or the free exercise of religion. We also agree that it is past time to repeal laws that create legal inequalities between heterosexuals and non- heterosexuals. We do believe, however, that he has missed two major points. The difference between crimes inspired by hate and other crimes is that they are aimed not just at the individual who suffers directly, but at everyone who shares the characteristic that inspired the attack. Crimes like the murder of Matthew Shepard influence others to imitate them and serve by reference as a weapon of intimidation. Regardless of what the law says, intimidation will continue as long as hateful attitudes go unchallenged. Religious people who support full legal and religious recognition of the equality of sexual minorities and their families need to stand with those who are systematically oppressed and speak out against violence and discrimination. Sincerely, Barbara Purdom Christopher Purdom Interfaith Working Group Coordinators The above letter went out on IWG letterhead listing 15 congregations and organizations and 59 clergy from 16 religious traditions. 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. -- 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.