From: Interfaith Working Group Subject: IWG US News Religious Right/Democracy letter Date: Sat, 1 Aug 1998 22:51:55 -0400 (EDT) August 1, 1998 U. S. News 2400 N St. N.W. Washington, DC 20037-1196 Dear Editors: Michael J. Gerson's conclusion that the religious right is "more interested in forcing debate on eternal questions than in building majorities for political change" is based on the false assumption that an actual majority is required to achieve change in a society where most people are not politically active. That political organizations and elected officials are debating theology instead of constitutionality is unfortunate proof that the religious right has achieved political change. Fortunately, people from many religious traditions who support a more inclusive vision for America are speaking out more and more to share that vision, so that political organizations are not forced to "debate with the Holy Spirit." But ultimately, a democratic Constitutional system is only as strong as the willingness of its citizens to participate in the political process. Sincerely, Barbara Purdom Christopher Purdom Interfaith Working Group Coordinators The above letter went out on IWG letterhead listing 16 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.