From: Interfaith Working Group Subject: IWG Philadelphia Inquirer Scouts Letter Date: Wed, 11 Aug 1999 22:16:36 -0400 (EDT) August 10, 1999 The Philadelphia Inquirer PO Box 8263 Philadelphia, PA 19101 Dear Editors: Thank you for your extensive coverage of the New Jersey Supreme Court's decision which overturned the discriminatory practices of the Boy Scouts of America. We support the right of private and religious organizations to set their own standards for membership (although we strongly encourage them not to discriminate on the basis of sexual orientation or identity). But those who favor public funding of religious schools and religious institutions running government programs should take note: when you are entangled with the public sector you are subject to public oversight. Contrary to some of the responses you have published, this court decision will not result in public oversight of church membership or denying anyone freedom of association; nor does it prevent parents from choosing role models for their children. The Boy Scouts do not claim that their organization is a church, but they do claim that because they are supported by houses of worship, they must discriminate against sexual minorities (even though fewer and fewer religious institutions are saying that same-gender relationships are inherently sinful). They should either decide to function like a true private religious organization, or else they should end their discriminatory practices. 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