From: Interfaith Working Group Subject: IWG: Matthew Shepard, Philadelphia Daily News Date: Fri, 16 Oct 1998 18:29:51 -0400 (EDT) October 14, 1998 Philadelphia Daily News PO Box 7788 Phila., PA 19101 Dear Editors: We are working for the day when being gay will not be a subject of embarrassment, when people have enough respect for each other that they don't beat each other to death just because they're different, and when the law reflects that there are no exceptions to "equal treatment." What sets Matthew Shepard's death apart from other murders is that it has terrorized millions of sexual minorities who fear that they will be next and it has emboldened others to act on their prejudices. Many religious organizations have reacted by speaking out against sexual minorities with more fervor than against the violence. Now is the time for people of faith 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.