[Durham INC] Letter re INC Marriage Resolution

[Joshua Allen]

I, for one, was very moved by Tom's words.  He has great insight into an
issue he lives on the outside of.  From my perspective, the one flaw in
Tom's letter is that he implies that the only source of the problem is hate
and bigotry.  It's also, and mostly, ignorance and apathy.

However, I can also see Richard's point of view.  I don't know what the
normal procedure is for these things, but I generally feel
it's permissible to take some liberty when writing to representatives as
long as the passed amendment is included and the general viewpoint is
maintained.

If Richard feels some people on the opposite side are being attacked, then
perhaps Tom can re-word his letter or make it is own personal letter and
attach the INC amendment as the INC position.

Finally, I must say.. Richard, I do not like that you invoked 9/11 in your
rebuke of Tom's letter.  That is rather unnecessary, over the top, and takes
away from your argument.

On Sun, Sep 11, 2011 at 7:14 PM, Richard Ford <rbford at aim.com> 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 letter has been withdrawn and that the INC position will be accurately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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>
>


-- 
Joshua
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