From: Interfaith Working Group Subject: IWG Fort Wayne Reggie White letter Date: Wed, 20 May 1998 23:14:04 -0400 (EDT) The following went out on IWG letterhead listing 12 congregations and organizations and 56 clergy from 15 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. May 20, 1998 Fort Wayne News-Sentinel 600 West Main St. Fort Wayne, IN 46802 Dear Editor: Charles P. DeSanto's May 13 commentary regarding reactions to Reggie White requires a response. First of all, we have not heard anyone describe Rev. White's comments about race and ethnicity as intentionally malicious. But some problems with stereotypes are that they have the effect of limiting individuals whose talents are different from the stereotype; they ignore or gloss over historical realities; they reinforce one trait as the most important aspect of an individual; and they confuse physiology and culture. On the other hand, Mr. DeSanto's remarks about sexual orientation represent religious stereotyping. There is a wide variety of religious belief and practice in this country among Christians, Jews, and people of many other faiths. Rev. White's beliefs concerning sexual orientation are shared by many religious people, and this being a country that upholds freedom of religion and speech he has every right to state his opinions. However, both he and Mr. DeSanto should realize that, by the same token, there are a significant number of people with different religious beliefs and practices who are exercising their right to state that Rev. White's remarks and his choice of venues for stating them are religiously and socially offensive to them and run counter to their beliefs. Many Christians believe that it is an anti-homosexual reading of the Bible that requires picking and choosing "only those portions we like or that suit our current practice." 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. Sunday, May 31, 4 pm, First Presbyterian Church in Philadelphia, 21st and Walnut Marching in the Light benefit concert http://www.libertynet.org/iwg/concert.html