STATEMENT BY ELIZABETH BIRCH, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE HUMAN RIGHTS CAMPAIGN, REGARDING THE COMMENTS OF JERRY FALWELL AND PAT ROBERTSON

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Friday, Sept. 14, 2001

Our country is struggling to cope with the monumental horror of Sept. 11, 2001. We are grieving those lost and consoling those who have lost much. Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender Americans were among those killed and among those working to save lives. Like all Americans, we are coming together in the spirit of community to face the unimaginable challenges ahead. Sadly, one of those challenges includes confronting the dark prejudices that continue to haunt our daily existence.

The words of Jerry Falwell and Pat Robertson yesterday were stunning. They were beyond contempt. They were irresponsible at best, and a deliberate attempt to manipulate the nation’s anger at worst. Falwell’s subsequent attempt at apology fell woefully short.

The words of these men are similar to the acts of equally contemptible retribution that are being waged against people of Middle Eastern origin or appearance in some areas of our country. This is not a time for scapegoating, it is a time for unity. To blame blindly, based on prejudice and rage, represents an ominous part of our world and we must work to overcome it wherever we find it. It should be soundly condemned by all of us as we struggle to focus our attentions on healing the pain of our nation.

Press Release: People for the American Way

For Immediate Release

September 13, 2001

Contact: Jason Young or Jeremy Leaming 202-467-4999

PFAW President, Ralph G. Neas, Addresses Divisive Comments by Religious Right Leaders

I am deeply saddened that in the wake of this week's devastating terrorist attacks, Religious Right political leaders Pat Robertson and Jerry Falwell have chosen the path of division rather than unity.

At a time when political leaders of both parties are urging bipartisanship and national unity, it is truly unfortunate that Americans who watched today's edition of Pat Robertson's 700 Club television program received a far different message from Robertson and Falwell.

This is a time for a shared national commitment to bringing those responsible for the terrorist attacks to justice. It is also a time to renew our commitment to protecting the constitutional liberties and democratic values that sustain our free society. Today's comments by Pat Robertson and Jerry Falwell can only impede efforts to bring the nation together in pursuit of these goals.