From: Interfaith Working Group Subject: IWG: Matthew Shepard, Miami Herald Date: Fri, 16 Oct 1998 19:29:08 -0400 (EDT) October 14, 1998 Miami Herald 1 Herald Plaza Miami, FL 33132 Dear Editors: Your October 13 editorial about Matthew Shepard and the causes of anti-gay violence missed a point which was underscored by an article the same day about the Christian Coalition opposing inclusion of sexual orientation in anti-discrimination laws. This position and others taken by the Christian Coalition and other organizations involved in the national anti-gay ad campaign imply that sexual minorities are condemned by God and all religious institutions, are a threat to society, are without any support from heterosexuals, and are undeserving of equal treatment under the law. Moral people who believe otherwise 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.