[Durham INC] Letter re INC Marriage Resolution

[Michael Brooks]

I was touched by Tom's letter, and glad that he added more information 
to the basic resolution expressing INC's position. It doesn't seem to 
have been the cause of any divisive polemic at all, at least before now.

Limiting the civil rights of any segment of our society, whether or not 
one agrees with the beliefs of that segment, is never justified, or 
explained by anything except ignorance.That was true 10 years ago, and 
will be tomorrow when the Legislature meets.

Mike Brooks

On 9/11/2011 7:14 PM, Richard Ford wrote:
>
> Tom,
>
> I believe you need to either not send the letter you posted or 
> immediately disavow it as representing the position of INC.
>
> INC adopted a resolution to oppose the amendment emphasizing positive 
> values. We did not attack anyone, compare the amendment to any 
> historical events nor issue a call to deal with any issues beyond the 
> proposed amendment.
>
> It appears the letter reflects your personal views, mirroring much of 
> what you said at the meeting where the resolution was adopted.  It 
> does not reflect the adopted views of INC.
>
> Beyond the material differences between your letter and the 
> resolution, I am alarmed that a community organization such as INC 
> would appear to characterize views held by many of our neighbors, 
> friends and their organizations as hateful and bigoted.  You may be 
> intolerant of dissent on this issue, but INC can hardly afford to be.
>
> We adopted a resolution, which can be sent to our legislators and 
> otherwise publicized.  Your letter appears to represent your opinions 
> and INC should not be yoked to it.
>
> I told my Board what was adopted.  I hope to be able to tell them that 
> your letter has been withdrawn and that the INC position will be 
> accurately represented.
>
> Also I need to tell them that a protocol has been put in place to 
> prevent any similar misrepresentation in the future.
>
> Personally I am really upset to see such a divisive polemic on a day 
> when all Americans are reliving the effects of intolerance and hatred 
> from ten years ago.
>
> Best
>
> Dick
>
>
>
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