From: "Overt" Subject: Overt Slams Exodus International Date: Sun, 16 May 1999 18:40:44 +1200 Overt adjective open, unconcealed E-mail: overt@crosswinds.net ~ Web-site: http://www2.crosswinds.net/~overt PO Box 12270, Thorndon, Wellington Regan Andrew- Media Officer Phone +64-4-3844869 ~ E-mail: overt@paradise.net.nz MEDIA STATEMENT May 14, 1999 Overt Slams Exodus International Overt condemns the actions and beliefs of the international organisation "Exodus". Exodus International is an inter-denominational Christian organisation whose primary aim is the eradication of the queer community. It is believed Exodus is reforming in New Zealand and Overt will be conducting a protest against this on the 19th of May. Overt opposes Exodus' view that homosexuality is inferior. The practises and beliefs of Exodus alienate the queer community through heterocentric rhetoric, and thus they must be opposed for the sake of all New Zealanders. The practises and beliefs of Exodus alienate the queer community through heterocentric rhetoric, and thus they must be opposed for the sake of all New Zealanders. Exodus claims to "cure" homosexuality. Overt sees this as both dangerous and denigrating to the queer community. A homosexual orientation and lifestyle is as valid as any other. Behaviour modification has also been condemned by the wider medical community. Senior members of Exodus International New Zealand committed suicide due to such practises. Apparently it was these deaths which led to the downfall of Exodus in the past. Exodus attempts to validate its claims by using an interpretation of 'God's will' based on the Bible despite the fact that according to many Christians and scholars, homosexuality is not condemned in the Bible. 'Practising' homosexuals can be Christians and are included within the clergy and congregation of several denominations. Most Christian scholars now accept that certain scriptures which refer to homosexual behaviour in the Bible, were not translated correctly and do not refer to homosexuality at all. Thus they can not be a true account of 'God's will'. Clearly, Exodus is a dangerous organisation with antiquated and prejudicial values based on homophobia - not Christianity or love as they would claim. Overt understands that there is a possibility Exodus will be trying to reform in New Zealand soon. A former president of Exodus International, and "reformed" homosexual will be speaking at The Rock church, 7 Glover St, Ngauranga Gorge, Wellington from 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday the 19th of May. He will be discussing homosexuality. Overt fears that this seminar will be the beginning of a terrible campaign to reform Exodus in New Zealand. In response Overt will be conducting a candlelight vigil at the church to remember those who have died as a result of the organisation and to protest any attempt to reform the group. Overt invites any other concerned citizens to join our vigil in the hope that at least some people may be saved. ENDS Contact Regan Andrew: or phone 04 3844869