For many years, progressive groups and their causes have been out in the political wilderness. No longer!
-- From "For Obama, many liberal wish lists await - Stymied for years, groups see chance" by Mike Dorning and Jim Tankersley, Chicago Tribune Washington Bureau 11/28/08
Now, with President-elect Barack Obama preparing to take the White House and Democrats firmly in control of Congress, the party's liberal constituencies can see their way to a promised land.
For progressives, that means a nation where it is easier for unions to organize workers, where federal laws ban job discrimination against gays, hate crime laws are expanded and public lands are shielded from logging and oil drilling.
Instead of waging the defensive battles they have fought for years, liberal groups—labor unions, environmentalists and others—are eagerly preparing for new confrontations with business and conservative interests. This time, they feel secure in having allies within Washington's power centers.
While advocates express a willingness to allow the new administration space to pursue its agenda on its own terms, they are determined not to be thwarted.
A top priority for civil rights and gay-rights groups is an expanded federal hate crimes law, which was vetoed by President George W. Bush.
Gay-rights activists want to make sure gays have equal job access and protection.
"It feels like there's an air of transparency," said Rea Carey, executive director of the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force. "As people are appointed [by Obama], and progressive people, the word spreads. And the word is, 'I look forward to talking with you.' ... It is this different feeling, that the door is not closed—the door is opening."
To read the entire article, CLICK HERE.
Friday, November 28, 2008
Thursday, November 27, 2008
The Religious Left 'Taste' the Millennium in Obama
After stewing with anger across 8 years in the wilderness, liberal prelates are shouting Hosanna in expectation of spiritual enlightenment during the Obama reign.
-- From "The Religious Left Celebrates" Commentary by Mark D. Tooley, posted at FrontPageMagazine.com 11/12/08
"We at the National Council of Churches urge all Americans to come together to uphold you with our hands, our hearts and our prayers," the NCC's chief, Michael Kinnamon wrote his congratulatory letter to Obama. The NCC, previously the voice of America's premier religious denominations, once truly walked in the corridors of power. It has never fully accepted its transition from mainline to sideline in America's religious demographic. As recently as 1995, the NCC was invited to the White House to "pray" for President Clinton as he was resisting the new Republican Congress. No doubt, the NCC is praying that its White House visitation rights will soon be restored.
. . . Rev. Kinnamon could not suppress his excitement. "The leaders of this Council pledge to you our unstinting support in the difficult days to come," he promised Obama. "All of us are dependent on God's loving mercy, and we will regularly pray for you and others elected to high leadership. May your wisdom and discernment serve you well, and may your health never wane."
Maybe even more excitable than the NCC was the United Methodist Council of Bishops, who were meeting in Georgia during the election, and could barely contain their joy.
United Methodism's chief lobbyist on Capitol Hill, Jim Winkler, who once called for President Bush's impeachment before retracting the call amid controversy, was also looking forward to ending his exile from White House events. "Barack Obama is a person of deep faith," he enthused. "I fully expect The United Methodist Church, for the first time in many years, will be welcomed in the White House." [Note: President Bush is the first Methodist president since William McKinley]
Another likely White House religious visitor during the Obama years is Sojourners chief Jim Wallis, who has been feverishly attempting to create an Evangelical Left that would undermine evangelicals' traditional conservative voting habits. This new Evangelical Left, largely a repackaging of the old Religious Left for a new audience that cannot remember the 1960's, wants to persuade evangelicals that Global Warming and opposing U.S. military actions is more important than upholding traditional marriage or opposing abortion.
Wallis claimed that his campaign was successful. "Polls leading up to the election showed a significant break from the previous generation on issues like gay marriage and abortion, which while still a top concern, it is not the only one," he rejoiced. . . Wallis, an old 1960's student radical who now wants to be seen as a soothing centrist, claimed, "These religious voters refuse to be distracted by the culture wars of the previous generation."
To read the entire commentary, CLICK HERE.
AGENDA: Grinding America Down (full movie on YouTube):
AGENDA: Grinding America Down (Full Movie) FREE to watch for a limited time (click here)! from Copybook Heading Productions LLC on Vimeo.
-- From "The Religious Left Celebrates" Commentary by Mark D. Tooley, posted at FrontPageMagazine.com 11/12/08
"We at the National Council of Churches urge all Americans to come together to uphold you with our hands, our hearts and our prayers," the NCC's chief, Michael Kinnamon wrote his congratulatory letter to Obama. The NCC, previously the voice of America's premier religious denominations, once truly walked in the corridors of power. It has never fully accepted its transition from mainline to sideline in America's religious demographic. As recently as 1995, the NCC was invited to the White House to "pray" for President Clinton as he was resisting the new Republican Congress. No doubt, the NCC is praying that its White House visitation rights will soon be restored.
. . . Rev. Kinnamon could not suppress his excitement. "The leaders of this Council pledge to you our unstinting support in the difficult days to come," he promised Obama. "All of us are dependent on God's loving mercy, and we will regularly pray for you and others elected to high leadership. May your wisdom and discernment serve you well, and may your health never wane."
Maybe even more excitable than the NCC was the United Methodist Council of Bishops, who were meeting in Georgia during the election, and could barely contain their joy.
United Methodism's chief lobbyist on Capitol Hill, Jim Winkler, who once called for President Bush's impeachment before retracting the call amid controversy, was also looking forward to ending his exile from White House events. "Barack Obama is a person of deep faith," he enthused. "I fully expect The United Methodist Church, for the first time in many years, will be welcomed in the White House." [Note: President Bush is the first Methodist president since William McKinley]
Another likely White House religious visitor during the Obama years is Sojourners chief Jim Wallis, who has been feverishly attempting to create an Evangelical Left that would undermine evangelicals' traditional conservative voting habits. This new Evangelical Left, largely a repackaging of the old Religious Left for a new audience that cannot remember the 1960's, wants to persuade evangelicals that Global Warming and opposing U.S. military actions is more important than upholding traditional marriage or opposing abortion.
Wallis claimed that his campaign was successful. "Polls leading up to the election showed a significant break from the previous generation on issues like gay marriage and abortion, which while still a top concern, it is not the only one," he rejoiced. . . Wallis, an old 1960's student radical who now wants to be seen as a soothing centrist, claimed, "These religious voters refuse to be distracted by the culture wars of the previous generation."
To read the entire commentary, CLICK HERE.
AGENDA: Grinding America Down (full movie on YouTube):
AGENDA: Grinding America Down (Full Movie) FREE to watch for a limited time (click here)! from Copybook Heading Productions LLC on Vimeo.
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Reaction to Losing on Election Day
"When conservative Christians lose at the polls, they react with quiet disappointment, reevaluation of political parties and traditional loyalties, and prayer for our nation and its leadership. But when the radical homosexual community loses an election, they fight back – literally."
-- From "Homosexuals not so 'gay' in California" commentary by Judge Roy Moore © 2008 WorldNetDaily 11/26/08
Americans who believe in traditional moral values like the right to life and one-man-one-woman marriage suffered a disappointing loss with the election of Barack Hussein Obama as president of the United States. The most liberal, pro-abortion president in our history, Obama also supports civil unions between people of the same sex. Conservatives were also frustrated by the rejection of pro-life measures at the polls in Colorado and South Dakota, and the failure of a law requiring parental notification for an abortion by a minor in California.
The homosexuals' response to the passage in California of Proposition 8, a constitutional amendment defining marriage as between one man and one woman, has been marked by violence, hatred and anti-religious bigotry. Earlier this year, the California Supreme Court struck down Proposition 22, a law passed in 2000 wherein the people of California had declared marriage to be only "between a man and a woman." Once again voicing their support for traditional marriage this Nov. 4, Californians approved Proposition 8, joining 29 other states where, by an average vote of 67 percent, the biblical definition of marriage has been protected in state constitutions. Proving to be the sorest of losers, thousands of angry homosexuals took to the streets to protest Proposition 8, even attacking Mormon and Christian churches in the process.
. . . Those who claimed that Proposition 8 was about "hate" are now showing what hate really looks like.
Homosexual riots in the streets and physical attacks on people of God seem more fitting for Sodom and Gomorrah than America. But those disturbing reactions reveal that radical homosexuals seek more than "tolerance" – they will not stop until they impose their immoral lifestyle on the rest of us, even to the point of making their perverse behavior legally sanctioned by law. Any setbacks are met by violent public tantrums and personal attacks.
While we must never adopt the unlawful and hateful tactics of radical homosexuals, Christians must continue to oppose their immoral agenda in our schools, courts and political establishments. We must pray for those who like the people of Sodom are still blinded by their sins. Finally, pray for our country and a return to the moral foundation that made us a great nation.
To read the entire commentary, CLICK HERE.
-- From "Homosexuals not so 'gay' in California" commentary by Judge Roy Moore © 2008 WorldNetDaily 11/26/08
Americans who believe in traditional moral values like the right to life and one-man-one-woman marriage suffered a disappointing loss with the election of Barack Hussein Obama as president of the United States. The most liberal, pro-abortion president in our history, Obama also supports civil unions between people of the same sex. Conservatives were also frustrated by the rejection of pro-life measures at the polls in Colorado and South Dakota, and the failure of a law requiring parental notification for an abortion by a minor in California.
The homosexuals' response to the passage in California of Proposition 8, a constitutional amendment defining marriage as between one man and one woman, has been marked by violence, hatred and anti-religious bigotry. Earlier this year, the California Supreme Court struck down Proposition 22, a law passed in 2000 wherein the people of California had declared marriage to be only "between a man and a woman." Once again voicing their support for traditional marriage this Nov. 4, Californians approved Proposition 8, joining 29 other states where, by an average vote of 67 percent, the biblical definition of marriage has been protected in state constitutions. Proving to be the sorest of losers, thousands of angry homosexuals took to the streets to protest Proposition 8, even attacking Mormon and Christian churches in the process.
. . . Those who claimed that Proposition 8 was about "hate" are now showing what hate really looks like.
Homosexual riots in the streets and physical attacks on people of God seem more fitting for Sodom and Gomorrah than America. But those disturbing reactions reveal that radical homosexuals seek more than "tolerance" – they will not stop until they impose their immoral lifestyle on the rest of us, even to the point of making their perverse behavior legally sanctioned by law. Any setbacks are met by violent public tantrums and personal attacks.
While we must never adopt the unlawful and hateful tactics of radical homosexuals, Christians must continue to oppose their immoral agenda in our schools, courts and political establishments. We must pray for those who like the people of Sodom are still blinded by their sins. Finally, pray for our country and a return to the moral foundation that made us a great nation.
To read the entire commentary, CLICK HERE.
Children's Defense Fund Won't Defend Unborn
The CDF, led by Marian Wright Edelman, will not take a position on the Freedom of Choice Act
-- From "Liberal Children’s Defense Fund Has No Position on Freedom of Choice Act, Edelman Says" by Nicholas Ballasy, CNSNews 11/25/08
The Freedom of Choice Act (FOCA) is proposed federal legislation that would remove nearly all restrictions on abortion, and President-elect Barack Obama has said that one of his first steps as president will be to sign FOCA into law.
“The Children’s Defense Fund has never taken a position for or against abortion,” said Edelman. “We don’t think we’ve got anything to add to that debate. We’re concerned with the children who are here – and I want both pro-choice and pro-life people to make sure that every child that comes here can have a safe and decent and safe life, and I stay functioning on that line. So I don’t have a position on that.”
Edelman was honored Monday at the National Press Club by U.S. News and World Report as one of "America's Best Leaders" in 2008 for her work with the Children’s Defense Fund. According to its Web site, the CDF is a non-profit child advocacy organization that has “worked relentlessly for 35 years to ensure a level playing field for all children.”
The Freedom of Choice Act would abolish all federal, state, and local restrictions and limitations on abortion prior to “fetal viability.” In the Senate, the bill was sponsored by Sen. Barbara Boxer (D-Calif.), and co-sponsored by Sens. Hillary Clinton (D-N.Y.) and Joe Lieberman (I-Conn.) among others.
To read the entire article, CLICK HERE.
-- From "Liberal Children’s Defense Fund Has No Position on Freedom of Choice Act, Edelman Says" by Nicholas Ballasy, CNSNews 11/25/08
The Freedom of Choice Act (FOCA) is proposed federal legislation that would remove nearly all restrictions on abortion, and President-elect Barack Obama has said that one of his first steps as president will be to sign FOCA into law.
“The Children’s Defense Fund has never taken a position for or against abortion,” said Edelman. “We don’t think we’ve got anything to add to that debate. We’re concerned with the children who are here – and I want both pro-choice and pro-life people to make sure that every child that comes here can have a safe and decent and safe life, and I stay functioning on that line. So I don’t have a position on that.”
Edelman was honored Monday at the National Press Club by U.S. News and World Report as one of "America's Best Leaders" in 2008 for her work with the Children’s Defense Fund. According to its Web site, the CDF is a non-profit child advocacy organization that has “worked relentlessly for 35 years to ensure a level playing field for all children.”
The Freedom of Choice Act would abolish all federal, state, and local restrictions and limitations on abortion prior to “fetal viability.” In the Senate, the bill was sponsored by Sen. Barbara Boxer (D-Calif.), and co-sponsored by Sens. Hillary Clinton (D-N.Y.) and Joe Lieberman (I-Conn.) among others.
To read the entire article, CLICK HERE.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Judge Places Young Boys with Homosexual Men
A Miami-Dade circuit judge Tuesday declared Florida's 30-year-old ban on gay adoption unconstitutional, allowing a North Miami man to adopt two foster kids he has raised since 2004.
-- From "Florida ban on gay adoptions ruled unconstitutional" by Carol Marbin Miller, Miami Herald 11/25/08
In a 53-page order that sets the stage for what could become a constitutional showdown, Circuit Judge Cindy Lederman permitted 47-year-old Frank Gill to adopt the 4- and 8-year-old boys he and his partner have raised since just before Christmas four years ago. A child abuse investigator had asked Gill to care for the boys temporarily; they were never able to return to their birth parents.
Moments after Lederman released the ruling, attorneys for Florida Attorney General Bill McCollum announced they would appeal the decision to the Third District Court of Appeal in Miami.
The attorney general's office had argued that gay men and lesbians are disproportionately more likely to suffer from mental illness or a substance abuse problem than straight people, rendering them less fit to parent -- especially children in foster care who already are under tremendous stress.
In a ruling that, at times, reads more like a social science research paper, Lederman dissected 30 years worth of psychological and sociological research, concluding that studies overwhelmingly have shown that gay people can parent every bit as effectively as straight people and do no harm to their children.
Lederman, who overseas Miami's juvenile and child welfare courts, is the second judge this year to declare the state's blanket ban on adoption by gay men and lesbians unconstitutional.
To read the entire article, CLICK HERE.
-- From "Florida ban on gay adoptions ruled unconstitutional" by Carol Marbin Miller, Miami Herald 11/25/08
In a 53-page order that sets the stage for what could become a constitutional showdown, Circuit Judge Cindy Lederman permitted 47-year-old Frank Gill to adopt the 4- and 8-year-old boys he and his partner have raised since just before Christmas four years ago. A child abuse investigator had asked Gill to care for the boys temporarily; they were never able to return to their birth parents.
Moments after Lederman released the ruling, attorneys for Florida Attorney General Bill McCollum announced they would appeal the decision to the Third District Court of Appeal in Miami.
The attorney general's office had argued that gay men and lesbians are disproportionately more likely to suffer from mental illness or a substance abuse problem than straight people, rendering them less fit to parent -- especially children in foster care who already are under tremendous stress.
In a ruling that, at times, reads more like a social science research paper, Lederman dissected 30 years worth of psychological and sociological research, concluding that studies overwhelmingly have shown that gay people can parent every bit as effectively as straight people and do no harm to their children.
Lederman, who overseas Miami's juvenile and child welfare courts, is the second judge this year to declare the state's blanket ban on adoption by gay men and lesbians unconstitutional.
To read the entire article, CLICK HERE.
Students Face Arrest for Display of Abortion Photos
University of Calgary threatens Campus Pro-Life student club if they repeat the display of 4-by-8-foot signs from the Genocide Awareness Project protest of abortion.
-- From "U of C students risk arrest for anti-abortion displays" posted at Canadian Broadcasting CBC 11/24/08
The anti-abortion group University of Calgary Campus Pro-Life plans to put up giant posters outside MacEwan Student Centre on Wednesday and Thursday showing aborted fetuses. The posters compare abortion to the Holocaust, the Ku Klux Klan and the genocide in Rwanda.
Earlier this year, university administrators asked the group, which has about 30 members, to make the posters less visible, citing safety concerns. But when they refused to comply, the school issued a letter last month threatening legal action.
University of Calgary Campus Pro-Life has held the Genocide Awareness Project displays five times since 2005, sometimes attracting counter-protests.
Student Julia Kittelsen, who filed a complaint, says she considers the displays hate propaganda. "I think it unfairly targets women who have had abortions."
To read the WorldNetDaily account of this story, CLICK HERE.
-- From "U of C students risk arrest for anti-abortion displays" posted at Canadian Broadcasting CBC 11/24/08
The anti-abortion group University of Calgary Campus Pro-Life plans to put up giant posters outside MacEwan Student Centre on Wednesday and Thursday showing aborted fetuses. The posters compare abortion to the Holocaust, the Ku Klux Klan and the genocide in Rwanda.
Earlier this year, university administrators asked the group, which has about 30 members, to make the posters less visible, citing safety concerns. But when they refused to comply, the school issued a letter last month threatening legal action.
University of Calgary Campus Pro-Life has held the Genocide Awareness Project displays five times since 2005, sometimes attracting counter-protests.
Student Julia Kittelsen, who filed a complaint, says she considers the displays hate propaganda. "I think it unfairly targets women who have had abortions."
To read the WorldNetDaily account of this story, CLICK HERE.
Monday, November 24, 2008
Legal Same-sex 'Marriage' Wedges Apostasy into Churches
The legalization of homosexual 'marriage' is effectively being used to pressure weak church leadership into abandoning Scriptural Authority in favor of politically-correct acceptance by the popular culture.
The following secular news media story is a case study of success of the 'gay agenda' in corrupting the church
-- From "Same-Sex Couples First Must Find A Willing And Able Cleric" by Elizabeth Hamilton, The Hartford Courant (Connecticut) 11/21/08
As [the lesbians] knelt on the altar in the soaring main sanctuary of Immanuel Congregational Church, [they were married] with the "blessing of Christ's church" . . .
Just because the [Connecticut] law says homosexual couples can marry, it doesn't mean clergy have to perform the ceremonies, or even have the authority to do so.
United Church Of Christ ministers . . . belong to one of the few mainline Christian denominations that are allowing their clergy to choose how they respond to the new law, along with Reform and Conservative Jews.
Roman Catholics, Episcopalians, Methodists, Presbyterians, Evangelical Lutherans, Orthodox Jews and a variety of other denominations have clearly stated policies that clergy are not permitted to perform marriage rites for same-sex couples.
For many of these religious groups, the twin issues of same-sex marriage and the ordination of openly homosexual clergy have been divisive — some, like the Episcopal Church and the Methodists, have suffered painful schisms because of disagreements over the church's position about biblical authority and homosexuality.
In California, for example, United Methodist ministers defied orders from their bishop last summer and performed same-sex marriages before the law was overturned on the Nov. 4 ballot.
The American Baptist Church also allows its clergy to make up their own minds when it comes to marrying same-sex couples.
Connecticut Episcopal Bishop Andrew Smith said this is the first time in history that the state's definition of marriage no longer agrees with that held by the church.
Smith gave his permission in 2006 for Episcopal priests in his diocese to perform "pastoral blessings" for same-sex couples who have been joined in civil unions. He has extended that permission to allow for such blessings at same sex wedding ceremonies, but priests may not actually officiate at the weddings.
But at the denomination's annual conference last month, 26 clergy and lay people signed a resolution that passed by a two-thirds vote, imploring that Smith allow his priests the right to exercise their own discretion when officiating at same-sex marriages. Smith said he would take the resolution under advisement.
Obadiah Ballinger, the religious organizer for the advocacy group Love Makes a Family, said she has heard that some clergy, including Episcopal priests, "are working creatively within their guidelines" to participate in same-sex marriage ceremonies.
To read the entire article, CLICK HERE.
The following secular news media story is a case study of success of the 'gay agenda' in corrupting the church
-- From "Same-Sex Couples First Must Find A Willing And Able Cleric" by Elizabeth Hamilton, The Hartford Courant (Connecticut) 11/21/08
As [the lesbians] knelt on the altar in the soaring main sanctuary of Immanuel Congregational Church, [they were married] with the "blessing of Christ's church" . . .
Just because the [Connecticut] law says homosexual couples can marry, it doesn't mean clergy have to perform the ceremonies, or even have the authority to do so.
United Church Of Christ ministers . . . belong to one of the few mainline Christian denominations that are allowing their clergy to choose how they respond to the new law, along with Reform and Conservative Jews.
Roman Catholics, Episcopalians, Methodists, Presbyterians, Evangelical Lutherans, Orthodox Jews and a variety of other denominations have clearly stated policies that clergy are not permitted to perform marriage rites for same-sex couples.
For many of these religious groups, the twin issues of same-sex marriage and the ordination of openly homosexual clergy have been divisive — some, like the Episcopal Church and the Methodists, have suffered painful schisms because of disagreements over the church's position about biblical authority and homosexuality.
In California, for example, United Methodist ministers defied orders from their bishop last summer and performed same-sex marriages before the law was overturned on the Nov. 4 ballot.
The American Baptist Church also allows its clergy to make up their own minds when it comes to marrying same-sex couples.
Connecticut Episcopal Bishop Andrew Smith said this is the first time in history that the state's definition of marriage no longer agrees with that held by the church.
Smith gave his permission in 2006 for Episcopal priests in his diocese to perform "pastoral blessings" for same-sex couples who have been joined in civil unions. He has extended that permission to allow for such blessings at same sex wedding ceremonies, but priests may not actually officiate at the weddings.
But at the denomination's annual conference last month, 26 clergy and lay people signed a resolution that passed by a two-thirds vote, imploring that Smith allow his priests the right to exercise their own discretion when officiating at same-sex marriages. Smith said he would take the resolution under advisement.
Obadiah Ballinger, the religious organizer for the advocacy group Love Makes a Family, said she has heard that some clergy, including Episcopal priests, "are working creatively within their guidelines" to participate in same-sex marriage ceremonies.
To read the entire article, CLICK HERE.
Brazilian Judge Bans Christian Book
A Brazilian Christian has been fined 2,000 reales (834 USD), and his book confiscated for publishing his belief that God condemns and punishes homosexual acts.
The 'Gay Agenda' has been effectively diminishing religious liberty in Brazil. Christians are being sued into silence and even face jail under popular legislation.
-- From "Brazilian Christian Censored and Fined for Making 'Homophobic' Remarks in Book" by Matthew Cullinan Hoffman, LifeSiteNews 11/22/08
Naurio Martins Franca, a resident of the state of Mato Grosso do Sul, is the author of "The Curse of God on the Homosexual: The Homosexual Needs to Know the Divine Curse that is Upon Him".
The book reportedly states the Christian belief that homosexual behavior is sinful, and even "demonic", and warns those who do not repent that "he who continues being a homosexual is defying the power of God and runs a great risk."
Franca's ordeal began last year when a judge ordered his book to be pulled from bookstores after three hundred of a total of 600 printed had been sold. Following the confiscation, a group of homosexuals burned the book in a protest outside of the International Church of Grace, Franca's church.
"The book is based on the Bible, on the word of God. The law regards it as homophobia, etc.," said Pastor Franca after charges were filed. "What can I do? The Bible is being usurped through the law of man. The Bible is the law of God," .
Although Franca's attorney reportedly argued at trial that his client had the right to freely express his opinions and religious beliefs, the judge responded that such rights were outweighed by the "principles outlined in the Federal Constitution, which would be the equality and dignity of the human person" and "discrimination is not tolerated", according to a paraphrase by TV Morena.
To read the entire article, CLICK HERE.
The 'Gay Agenda' has been effectively diminishing religious liberty in Brazil. Christians are being sued into silence and even face jail under popular legislation.
-- From "Brazilian Christian Censored and Fined for Making 'Homophobic' Remarks in Book" by Matthew Cullinan Hoffman, LifeSiteNews 11/22/08
Naurio Martins Franca, a resident of the state of Mato Grosso do Sul, is the author of "The Curse of God on the Homosexual: The Homosexual Needs to Know the Divine Curse that is Upon Him".
The book reportedly states the Christian belief that homosexual behavior is sinful, and even "demonic", and warns those who do not repent that "he who continues being a homosexual is defying the power of God and runs a great risk."
Franca's ordeal began last year when a judge ordered his book to be pulled from bookstores after three hundred of a total of 600 printed had been sold. Following the confiscation, a group of homosexuals burned the book in a protest outside of the International Church of Grace, Franca's church.
"The book is based on the Bible, on the word of God. The law regards it as homophobia, etc.," said Pastor Franca after charges were filed. "What can I do? The Bible is being usurped through the law of man. The Bible is the law of God," .
Although Franca's attorney reportedly argued at trial that his client had the right to freely express his opinions and religious beliefs, the judge responded that such rights were outweighed by the "principles outlined in the Federal Constitution, which would be the equality and dignity of the human person" and "discrimination is not tolerated", according to a paraphrase by TV Morena.
To read the entire article, CLICK HERE.
Friday, November 21, 2008
Citizens Encouraged to Set Up Nativity Scenes
The Nativity Project asks Christians across America to go to their government buildings, obtain any necessary permits, and display the powerful message of the Christmas season.
-- From "Nativity Scene Goes to U.S. Supreme Court" by Paul Strand, CBN News Sr. Washington correspondent 11/20/08
A couple of Christian rights groups placed a nativity scene in front of the U.S. Supreme Court Thursday, as part of an effort to encourage Americans to do the same in front of public buildings all across the United States.
The National Clergy Council and the Christian Defense Coalition point out many Americans falsely believe such displays are forbidden, and so creches have disappeared from many places where they used to be commonplace.
"Tragically the courts have ruled that in many places, cities themselves can no longer display nativity scenes," [said Reverend Pat Mahoney, national director of the Christian Defense Coalition.] "But we've discovered individual citizens can go to their city halls, state capitol buildings, government buildings, and as individual citizens they can place nativity scenes up in these public places."
To read the entire article, CLICK HERE.
-- From "Nativity Scene Goes to U.S. Supreme Court" by Paul Strand, CBN News Sr. Washington correspondent 11/20/08
A couple of Christian rights groups placed a nativity scene in front of the U.S. Supreme Court Thursday, as part of an effort to encourage Americans to do the same in front of public buildings all across the United States.
The National Clergy Council and the Christian Defense Coalition point out many Americans falsely believe such displays are forbidden, and so creches have disappeared from many places where they used to be commonplace.
"Tragically the courts have ruled that in many places, cities themselves can no longer display nativity scenes," [said Reverend Pat Mahoney, national director of the Christian Defense Coalition.] "But we've discovered individual citizens can go to their city halls, state capitol buildings, government buildings, and as individual citizens they can place nativity scenes up in these public places."
To read the entire article, CLICK HERE.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Proposed Chicago High School Not Gay Enough
Designers of a plan to create the city's first gay-friendly high school pulled the plug on a watered-down version of the plan Tuesday but vowed to resurrect the idea next year.
-- From "No gay high school -- at least not in '09" by Rosalind Rossi, Chicago Sun Times Education Reporter 11/19/08
Some lead members of the design team had thought that the latest version of the proposal -- which deleted all specific references to gay students from the mission statement and changed the school's name -- had been the best way to garner support for the new school, Chicago public school officials said. But on Tuesday, other members balked.
"When we tried to compromise as much as we could with our language, even changing our name, in the end, the design team couldn't fully agree that this proposal should go through," one team member, Katherine Hogan, told WTTW-Channel 11's "Chicago Tonight" Tuesday.
Hogan, a literature teacher at Social Justice High School, insisted the design team had the "full support" of Schools CEO Arne Duncan and would "absolutely" submit an "even stronger" version of the plan next year, in time for the school to open in 2010, as planned.
To read the entire article, CLICK HERE.
-- From "No gay high school -- at least not in '09" by Rosalind Rossi, Chicago Sun Times Education Reporter 11/19/08
Some lead members of the design team had thought that the latest version of the proposal -- which deleted all specific references to gay students from the mission statement and changed the school's name -- had been the best way to garner support for the new school, Chicago public school officials said. But on Tuesday, other members balked.
"When we tried to compromise as much as we could with our language, even changing our name, in the end, the design team couldn't fully agree that this proposal should go through," one team member, Katherine Hogan, told WTTW-Channel 11's "Chicago Tonight" Tuesday.
Hogan, a literature teacher at Social Justice High School, insisted the design team had the "full support" of Schools CEO Arne Duncan and would "absolutely" submit an "even stronger" version of the plan next year, in time for the school to open in 2010, as planned.
To read the entire article, CLICK HERE.
Gay Agenda Defeats eHarmony
Internet dating service promoted by James Dobson bows to lawsuit, creates special service for homosexual pairing
-- From "eHarmony.com to match 'gays'" by Chelsea Schilling © 2008 WorldNetDaily 11/19/08
The popular California-based service has been known for focusing on long-term relationships, especially marriage, which has been said to align with founder Clark Warren's early work with Focus on the Family's evangelical Christian base and perspective.
Warren, a psychologist with a divinity degree, has had three of his 10 books on love and dating published by Focus on the Family. It was an appearance on James Dobson's radio program, in 2001, that triggered a response of 90,000 new referrals to the website, starting a climb of registered participants on the site from 4,000 to today's 20 million clients.
As WND reported, the company originally said it was "based on the Christian principles of Focus on the Family author Dr. Neil Clark Warren." It stood firm on its decision to reject homosexuals from its profiling and matching services. Its entire compatibility system is based on research of married heterosexual couples.
In 2005, Warren told USA Today the company's goal is marriage and that same-sex marriage is illegal in most states.
"We don't really want to participate in something that's illegal," he said.
But now the company has been compelled to changed its nationwide policy as part of a New Jersey lawsuit settlement.
To read the entire article, CLICK HERE.
-- From "eHarmony.com to match 'gays'" by Chelsea Schilling © 2008 WorldNetDaily 11/19/08
The popular California-based service has been known for focusing on long-term relationships, especially marriage, which has been said to align with founder Clark Warren's early work with Focus on the Family's evangelical Christian base and perspective.
Warren, a psychologist with a divinity degree, has had three of his 10 books on love and dating published by Focus on the Family. It was an appearance on James Dobson's radio program, in 2001, that triggered a response of 90,000 new referrals to the website, starting a climb of registered participants on the site from 4,000 to today's 20 million clients.
As WND reported, the company originally said it was "based on the Christian principles of Focus on the Family author Dr. Neil Clark Warren." It stood firm on its decision to reject homosexuals from its profiling and matching services. Its entire compatibility system is based on research of married heterosexual couples.
In 2005, Warren told USA Today the company's goal is marriage and that same-sex marriage is illegal in most states.
"We don't really want to participate in something that's illegal," he said.
But now the company has been compelled to changed its nationwide policy as part of a New Jersey lawsuit settlement.
To read the entire article, CLICK HERE.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Catholic Bishops' Statement Warns Obama on Abortion
"Aggressively pro-abortion policies, legislation and executive orders will permanently alienate tens of millions of Americans, and would be seen by many as an attack on the free exercise of their religion."
-- From "Catholic bishops plan to forcefully confront Obama" by Manya Brachear, Chicago Tribune staff reporter 11/11/08
In a direct challenge to President-elect Barack Obama, America's Roman Catholic bishops vowed on Tuesday [November 11th] to accept no compromise for the sake of national unity until there is legal protection for the unborn.
About 300 bishops, gathered in Baltimore for their national meeting, adopted a formal blessing for a child in the womb and advised Chicago's Cardinal Francis George, president of the conference, as he began drafting a statement from the bishops to the incoming Obama administration. That document will call on the administration and Catholics who supported Obama to work to outlaw abortion.
"This is not a matter of political compromise or a matter of finding some way of common ground," said Bishop Daniel Conlon of Steubenville, Ohio. "It's a matter of absolutes."
Several bishops said that Catholics could not in good conscience vote for a candidate who favored abortion rights after Obama pledged to pass legislation that would overturn state's restrictions on abortion such as late-term abortion bans and requirements of parental consent.
Bishops Thomas Paprocki of Chicago said such legislation could threaten laws that allow health-care workers to refrain from carrying out procedures that violate their conscience, putting Catholic health care institutions in jeopardy.
George agreed that losing federal funds would put Catholic health care facilities, which make up a third of the nation's hospitals, out of business. Closing Catholic hospitals would put many patients seeking charitable care from those facilities at risk, he added.
In crafting the statement to Obama, the bishops urged the cardinal to indicate a desire to work with the administration in areas of economic justice, immigration reform, health care for the poor and religious freedom. But they stressed the church's "intent on opposing evil" and "defense of the unborn child."
Read the full statement: Cardinal George Voices Hope for Obama Administration, Points to Possible Obstacles to Our Desired Unity
-- From "Catholic bishops plan to forcefully confront Obama" by Manya Brachear, Chicago Tribune staff reporter 11/11/08
In a direct challenge to President-elect Barack Obama, America's Roman Catholic bishops vowed on Tuesday [November 11th] to accept no compromise for the sake of national unity until there is legal protection for the unborn.
About 300 bishops, gathered in Baltimore for their national meeting, adopted a formal blessing for a child in the womb and advised Chicago's Cardinal Francis George, president of the conference, as he began drafting a statement from the bishops to the incoming Obama administration. That document will call on the administration and Catholics who supported Obama to work to outlaw abortion.
"This is not a matter of political compromise or a matter of finding some way of common ground," said Bishop Daniel Conlon of Steubenville, Ohio. "It's a matter of absolutes."
Several bishops said that Catholics could not in good conscience vote for a candidate who favored abortion rights after Obama pledged to pass legislation that would overturn state's restrictions on abortion such as late-term abortion bans and requirements of parental consent.
Bishops Thomas Paprocki of Chicago said such legislation could threaten laws that allow health-care workers to refrain from carrying out procedures that violate their conscience, putting Catholic health care institutions in jeopardy.
George agreed that losing federal funds would put Catholic health care facilities, which make up a third of the nation's hospitals, out of business. Closing Catholic hospitals would put many patients seeking charitable care from those facilities at risk, he added.
In crafting the statement to Obama, the bishops urged the cardinal to indicate a desire to work with the administration in areas of economic justice, immigration reform, health care for the poor and religious freedom. But they stressed the church's "intent on opposing evil" and "defense of the unborn child."
Read the full statement: Cardinal George Voices Hope for Obama Administration, Points to Possible Obstacles to Our Desired Unity
Obama, Media Pounce on Bush for 'Right of Conscience' Reg
A last-minute Bush administration plan to grant sweeping new protections to health care providers who oppose abortion and other procedures on religious or moral grounds has provoked a torrent of objections . . .
-- From "Last-minute Bush abortion ruling causes furor" by Robert Pear, New York Times (International) 11/18/08
The proposed rule would prohibit recipients of federal money from discriminating against doctors, nurses and other health care workers who refuse to perform or to assist in the performance of abortions or sterilization procedures because of their "religious beliefs or moral convictions."
It would also prevent hospitals, clinics, doctors' offices and drugstores from requiring employees with religious or moral objections to "assist in the performance of any part of a health service program or research activity" financed by the Department of Health and Human Services.
[The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission counsel] Reed Russell, and two Democratic members of the commission, Stuart Ishimaru and Christine Griffin, . . . said that the rule was unnecessary for the protection of employees and potentially confusing to employers.
Obama has said the proposal will raise new hurdles to women seeking reproductive health services, like abortion and some contraceptives. Michael Leavitt, the health and human services secretary, said that was not the purpose.
Officials at the Health and Human Services Department said they intended to issue a final version of the rule within days. Aides and advisers to Obama said he would try to rescind it, a process that could take three to six months.
The proposal is supported by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops and the Catholic Health Association, which represents Catholic hospitals.
Sister Carol Keehan, president of the Catholic Health Association, said that in recent years, "we have seen a variety of efforts to force Catholic and other health care providers to perform or refer for abortions and sterilizations."
To read the entire article, CLICK HERE.
-- From "Last-minute Bush abortion ruling causes furor" by Robert Pear, New York Times (International) 11/18/08
The proposed rule would prohibit recipients of federal money from discriminating against doctors, nurses and other health care workers who refuse to perform or to assist in the performance of abortions or sterilization procedures because of their "religious beliefs or moral convictions."
It would also prevent hospitals, clinics, doctors' offices and drugstores from requiring employees with religious or moral objections to "assist in the performance of any part of a health service program or research activity" financed by the Department of Health and Human Services.
[The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission counsel] Reed Russell, and two Democratic members of the commission, Stuart Ishimaru and Christine Griffin, . . . said that the rule was unnecessary for the protection of employees and potentially confusing to employers.
Obama has said the proposal will raise new hurdles to women seeking reproductive health services, like abortion and some contraceptives. Michael Leavitt, the health and human services secretary, said that was not the purpose.
Officials at the Health and Human Services Department said they intended to issue a final version of the rule within days. Aides and advisers to Obama said he would try to rescind it, a process that could take three to six months.
The proposal is supported by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops and the Catholic Health Association, which represents Catholic hospitals.
Sister Carol Keehan, president of the Catholic Health Association, said that in recent years, "we have seen a variety of efforts to force Catholic and other health care providers to perform or refer for abortions and sterilizations."
To read the entire article, CLICK HERE.
Monday, November 17, 2008
Christians Suffer Chemical Attack at Abortion Clinic
Two pro-life Christians praying at the site of a Wichita late-term abortion clinic operated by George Tiller were targeted by chemical exposure to fumes, with one woman hospitalized
-- From "Chemical Attack on Pro-lifers at Abortion Clinic Sickens Two" posted at Christian Newswire 11/13/08
One of the pro-lifers, Jennifer McCoy, was treated for four hours at a local hospital emergency room suffering from vomiting, diarrhea, and swelling of the face and eyes.
Another woman, Brandi Lozier, was with McCoy praying outside the abortion clinic in the early morning hours of Sunday, November 2, 2008, as part of the 40 Days For Life event. She suffered similar symptoms, but was not hospitalized.
Hazmat was called to the abortion clinic and treated the area with a kitty-litter type of substance in order to absorb the noxious oily spill.
After being released from the hospital, McCoy filed a complaint with the Wichita Police Department, but, a week and a half later, arrest and prosecution of the unknown perpetrator seems unlikely.
This was not the first of such attacks on pro-lifers who minister outside Tiller's abortion mill. In September, 2007, Tiller's security guard, John Rayburn, was photographed with a "stink bomb" that also sickened those on the scene. Prosecutors refused to file charges, and efforts to hold Tiller accountable in small claims court failed.
To view a video report at the scene, CLICK HERE.
-- From "Chemical Attack on Pro-lifers at Abortion Clinic Sickens Two" posted at Christian Newswire 11/13/08
One of the pro-lifers, Jennifer McCoy, was treated for four hours at a local hospital emergency room suffering from vomiting, diarrhea, and swelling of the face and eyes.
Another woman, Brandi Lozier, was with McCoy praying outside the abortion clinic in the early morning hours of Sunday, November 2, 2008, as part of the 40 Days For Life event. She suffered similar symptoms, but was not hospitalized.
Hazmat was called to the abortion clinic and treated the area with a kitty-litter type of substance in order to absorb the noxious oily spill.
After being released from the hospital, McCoy filed a complaint with the Wichita Police Department, but, a week and a half later, arrest and prosecution of the unknown perpetrator seems unlikely.
This was not the first of such attacks on pro-lifers who minister outside Tiller's abortion mill. In September, 2007, Tiller's security guard, John Rayburn, was photographed with a "stink bomb" that also sickened those on the scene. Prosecutors refused to file charges, and efforts to hold Tiller accountable in small claims court failed.
To view a video report at the scene, CLICK HERE.
Texas Diocese Exits Apostate Episcopal Denomination
The Episcopal Diocese of Fort Worth is the latest to break with the national church over a dispute that involves Scriptural authority.
-- From "Diocese in Texas Leaves Episcopal Church" by Gretel C. Kovach, New York Times 11/16/08
The Fort Worth diocese amended its constitution to shift allegiance from the Episcopal Church [ECUSA] to the Anglican Communion, its parent body. The measure passed by a vote of 72 to 19 among the clergy and 102 to 25 among the laity, at the diocese’s 26th annual convention at St. Vincent’s Cathedral in Bedford, Tex.
The diocese was welcomed Saturday into the Province of the Southern Cone, based in Argentina, but the realignment is expected to be temporary while the diocese works to establish a conservative province of the Anglican Communion in the United States, diocese leaders said.
Bishop Jack L. Iker laid blame for the split on what he described as “a church that is increasingly unfaithful and disobedient to the word of God, a church that has caused division and dissension both at home and abroad, a church that has torn the fabric of the communion at its deepest level, a church that acts more and more like a rebellious protestant sect and less and less like an integral part of the one holy catholic and apostolic church. It is time to say enough is enough.”
Dioceses in Pittsburgh; Quincy, Ill.; and Fresno, Calif., have also voted to leave the national church.
To read the entire article, CLICK HERE.
-- From "Diocese in Texas Leaves Episcopal Church" by Gretel C. Kovach, New York Times 11/16/08
The Fort Worth diocese amended its constitution to shift allegiance from the Episcopal Church [ECUSA] to the Anglican Communion, its parent body. The measure passed by a vote of 72 to 19 among the clergy and 102 to 25 among the laity, at the diocese’s 26th annual convention at St. Vincent’s Cathedral in Bedford, Tex.
The diocese was welcomed Saturday into the Province of the Southern Cone, based in Argentina, but the realignment is expected to be temporary while the diocese works to establish a conservative province of the Anglican Communion in the United States, diocese leaders said.
Bishop Jack L. Iker laid blame for the split on what he described as “a church that is increasingly unfaithful and disobedient to the word of God, a church that has caused division and dissension both at home and abroad, a church that has torn the fabric of the communion at its deepest level, a church that acts more and more like a rebellious protestant sect and less and less like an integral part of the one holy catholic and apostolic church. It is time to say enough is enough.”
Dioceses in Pittsburgh; Quincy, Ill.; and Fresno, Calif., have also voted to leave the national church.
To read the entire article, CLICK HERE.
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Same-sex 'Marriage' Advocates Post Christian Hit-lists
Since donor lists are public and can legally be published, California Christians who supported Prop 8's traditional marriage are finding their names listed on homosexual blogs for retribution.
-- From "Prop. 8 Anger Spurs Donor Blacklists" posted at CBS News 11/13/08
. . . supporters of same-sex marriage are posting blacklists - the names and businesses of those who gave money to help Proposition 8 pass.
Chris Lee, an engineer who is an immigrant from China, was shocked to see his name on the Web site AntiGayBlacklist.com after he gave $1,000 to the campaign to end same-sex marriage.
"I was completely disgusted," Li said. "This sort of blacklist should only appear in communist countries, should not be found in the United States."
In Los Angeles, demonstrators called for a boycott of a restaurant whose manager made a personal donation of $100 to the "Yes on 8" campaign.
The Internet has made open political financing even more open - and perhaps more intimidating.
To read the entire story, CLICK HERE.
-- From "Prop. 8 Anger Spurs Donor Blacklists" posted at CBS News 11/13/08
. . . supporters of same-sex marriage are posting blacklists - the names and businesses of those who gave money to help Proposition 8 pass.
Chris Lee, an engineer who is an immigrant from China, was shocked to see his name on the Web site AntiGayBlacklist.com after he gave $1,000 to the campaign to end same-sex marriage.
"I was completely disgusted," Li said. "This sort of blacklist should only appear in communist countries, should not be found in the United States."
In Los Angeles, demonstrators called for a boycott of a restaurant whose manager made a personal donation of $100 to the "Yes on 8" campaign.
The Internet has made open political financing even more open - and perhaps more intimidating.
To read the entire story, CLICK HERE.
Under Obama, Taxpayers will Fund Abortion
Reversal is anticipated on the Kemp-Kasten Amendment, which states no U.S. funds “may be made available to any organization or program which, as determined by the President of the United States, supports or participates in the management of a program of coercive abortion or involuntary sterilization.”
-- From "Congresswoman Confident Obama Will Fund UNFPA, Which Supports China's Coercive Abortion Program" by Penny Starr, Senior Staff Writer, CNSNews 11/13/08
Rep. Carolyn Maloney (D-N.Y.) said she is confident that President-elect Barack Obama will reverse the Bush administration’s decision six years ago to stop the $40 million in annual funding to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) because of its support of China’s one-child policy – a policy that includes coercive abortion.
In July, Deputy Secretary of State John Negroponte submitted a letter along with a report explaining the U.S. decision not to fund UNFPA for the sixth year in a row.
“The United States opposes coercive abortion and involuntary sterilization. I have determined that by providing financial and technical resources … to [China’s] National Population and Family Planning Commission and related entities, UNFPA provides support for and participates in the management of the Chinese government’s program of coercive abortion and involuntary sterilization,” he wrote.
During his campaign, Obama said he supports the 1973 Supreme Court Roe v. Wade decision legalizing abortion in the United States.
He also promised Planned Parenthood that he would sign into law the Freedom of Choice Act (FOCA), which strikes down all federal and state restrictions on abortion, including the ban on partial-birth abortion, and will establish abortion-on-demand in every state and the U.S. territories.
Obama also has said he supports “comprehensive sex education” in public schools that would include abstinence and information on “safe sex” practices.
To read the entire article, CLICK HERE.
-- From "Congresswoman Confident Obama Will Fund UNFPA, Which Supports China's Coercive Abortion Program" by Penny Starr, Senior Staff Writer, CNSNews 11/13/08
Rep. Carolyn Maloney (D-N.Y.) said she is confident that President-elect Barack Obama will reverse the Bush administration’s decision six years ago to stop the $40 million in annual funding to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) because of its support of China’s one-child policy – a policy that includes coercive abortion.
In July, Deputy Secretary of State John Negroponte submitted a letter along with a report explaining the U.S. decision not to fund UNFPA for the sixth year in a row.
“The United States opposes coercive abortion and involuntary sterilization. I have determined that by providing financial and technical resources … to [China’s] National Population and Family Planning Commission and related entities, UNFPA provides support for and participates in the management of the Chinese government’s program of coercive abortion and involuntary sterilization,” he wrote.
During his campaign, Obama said he supports the 1973 Supreme Court Roe v. Wade decision legalizing abortion in the United States.
He also promised Planned Parenthood that he would sign into law the Freedom of Choice Act (FOCA), which strikes down all federal and state restrictions on abortion, including the ban on partial-birth abortion, and will establish abortion-on-demand in every state and the U.S. territories.
Obama also has said he supports “comprehensive sex education” in public schools that would include abstinence and information on “safe sex” practices.
To read the entire article, CLICK HERE.
Saturday, November 15, 2008
Woman Assaulted by Homosexual Advocates Files Charges
Phyllis Burgess, standing at the Palm Springs City Hall to show support for traditional marriage, initially said she would not press charges against the large men who grabbed and destroyed the cross she carried, but after encouragement by the police, she has now filed charges.
-- CLICK HERE to launch news report video
-- CLICK HERE to launch news report video
Friday, November 14, 2008
Theater Director Forced to Resign by Homosexual Advocates
The artistic director of the California Musical Theater, a major nonprofit producing company here in the state’s capital, resigned on Wednesday in the face of growing outrage over his support for a ballot measure this month that outlawed same-sex marriage in California.
-- From "Theater Director Resigns Amid Gay-Rights Ire" by Jesse McKinley, New York Times 11/13/08
The artistic director, Scott Eckern, came under fire recently after it became known that he contributed $1,000 to support Proposition 8, which amended the state Constitution to recognize only male-female marriages. The measure was approved by 52 percent of California voters on Election Day. (Same-sex marriages had been performed in California since June.)
His donation was brought to light by online activists angry about the measure’s success at the polls.
“I understand that my choice of supporting Proposition 8 has been the cause of many hurt feelings, maybe even betrayal,” Mr. Eckern said. “It was not my intent. I honestly had no idea that this would be the reaction.”
Marc Shaiman, the Tony Award-winning composer (“Hairspray”), called Mr. Eckern last week and said that he would not let his work be performed in the theater. “I was uncomfortable with money made off my work being used to put discrimination in the Constitution,” Mr. Shaiman said. He added, however, that the entire episode left him “deeply troubled” because of the potential for backlash against gays who protested Mr. Eckern’s donation.
“It will not help our cause because we will be branded exactly as what we were trying to fight,” said Mr. Shaiman, who is gay. “But I do believe there comes a time when you cannot sit back and accept what I think is the most dangerous form of bigotry.”
Supporters of the marriage ban said that critics of Mr. Eckern were attacking freedom of expression, and they chastised the theater’s board for subjecting Mr. Eckern to a political litmus test.
In his statement Mr. Eckern said that he would donate $1,000 to a gay-rights group, adding that he respected gay people, including a sister who is a lesbian.
Susan Egan, a Broadway actress (“Beauty and the Beast”) who landed her first professional job at the California Musical Theater, said she had been saddened by both Mr. Eckern’s actions and her own involvement, which included posting a letter on her Facebook page supporting the idea of boycotting the theater.
To read the entire article, CLICK HERE.
-- From "Theater Director Resigns Amid Gay-Rights Ire" by Jesse McKinley, New York Times 11/13/08
The artistic director, Scott Eckern, came under fire recently after it became known that he contributed $1,000 to support Proposition 8, which amended the state Constitution to recognize only male-female marriages. The measure was approved by 52 percent of California voters on Election Day. (Same-sex marriages had been performed in California since June.)
His donation was brought to light by online activists angry about the measure’s success at the polls.
“I understand that my choice of supporting Proposition 8 has been the cause of many hurt feelings, maybe even betrayal,” Mr. Eckern said. “It was not my intent. I honestly had no idea that this would be the reaction.”
Marc Shaiman, the Tony Award-winning composer (“Hairspray”), called Mr. Eckern last week and said that he would not let his work be performed in the theater. “I was uncomfortable with money made off my work being used to put discrimination in the Constitution,” Mr. Shaiman said. He added, however, that the entire episode left him “deeply troubled” because of the potential for backlash against gays who protested Mr. Eckern’s donation.
“It will not help our cause because we will be branded exactly as what we were trying to fight,” said Mr. Shaiman, who is gay. “But I do believe there comes a time when you cannot sit back and accept what I think is the most dangerous form of bigotry.”
Supporters of the marriage ban said that critics of Mr. Eckern were attacking freedom of expression, and they chastised the theater’s board for subjecting Mr. Eckern to a political litmus test.
In his statement Mr. Eckern said that he would donate $1,000 to a gay-rights group, adding that he respected gay people, including a sister who is a lesbian.
Susan Egan, a Broadway actress (“Beauty and the Beast”) who landed her first professional job at the California Musical Theater, said she had been saddened by both Mr. Eckern’s actions and her own involvement, which included posting a letter on her Facebook page supporting the idea of boycotting the theater.
To read the entire article, CLICK HERE.
Australian Government to Filter Internet Content
Officials say that "illegal and unwanted content" will be barred from citizens, but refuse to identify what may be deemed "unwanted" -- critics concerned that may include Scripture and Christian content.
-- From "Australia planning to block 10,000 websites" by Bonnie Malkin, The Telegraph in Sydney 11/14/08
The websites will be blocked as part of a government-sponsored trial of its filter technology that will start before Christmas and last six weeks.
The government has already identified 1300 websites that it wants to black list as part of the clean feeds scheme.
Communications Minister Stephen Conroy said the sites mostly contained child pornography and other unwanted content, including images and videos.
Colin Jacobs, board member of Electronic Frontiers Australia said he was concerned at what would be deemed "unwanted content".
"Conroy said the list would contain illegal and unwanted content but we still have to see what would end up on that list."
To read the entire article, CLICK HERE.
-- From "Australia planning to block 10,000 websites" by Bonnie Malkin, The Telegraph in Sydney 11/14/08
The websites will be blocked as part of a government-sponsored trial of its filter technology that will start before Christmas and last six weeks.
The government has already identified 1300 websites that it wants to black list as part of the clean feeds scheme.
Communications Minister Stephen Conroy said the sites mostly contained child pornography and other unwanted content, including images and videos.
Colin Jacobs, board member of Electronic Frontiers Australia said he was concerned at what would be deemed "unwanted content".
"Conroy said the list would contain illegal and unwanted content but we still have to see what would end up on that list."
To read the entire article, CLICK HERE.
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