From: Interfaith Working Group Subject: IWG Bergen County Scouts Letter Date: Wed, 11 Aug 1999 22:09:06 -0400 (EDT) August 10, 1999 Bergen Record 150 River Street Hackensack, NJ 07602 Dear Editors: In Paul Rogers' August 5 article regarding reactions to the New Jersey Supreme Court's decision overturning the discriminatory practices of the Boy Scouts of America, he said, "the Scouts do not allow leaders to talk about sex or religion, and scoutmasters can be ousted if they do. The Scout code requires leaders to refer youngsters to their parents when asked about these issues." This is a very sensible and non-nondiscriminatory policy for an organization with a culturally-diverse clientele, but how can the Boy Scouts claim to be a religious organization, or an organization that imparts religious values, if those running it cannot discuss religion with the scouts? Sincerely, Barbara Purdom Christopher Purdom Interfaith Working Group Coordinators The above letter went out on IWG letterhead listing 17 congregations and organizations and 65 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 http://www.libertynet.org/iwg and clergy supporting gay rights, iwg@libertynet.org reproductive freedom, and the voice: 215-235-3050 fax: 232-0829 separation of church and state. Support our work: wear an IWG shirt! http://www.libertynet.org/iwg/clothes.html