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RETURN TO > 1999 > DATELINE
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DignityUSA DATELINE
MAY 1999
VOL. 8, NO. 5
New Membership Brochure Available
The new DignityUSA new membership brochure is complete! Several copies of this attractive informational piece and instructions for ordering in quantities have been sent to each chapter. Chapters are urged to take advantage of this new tool to bring more people into our movement. A large space has been left blank for chapters to add local information using a stamp or sticker. If your chapter wants to request a supply for June Pride Day celebrations, send your request into the National Office as soon as possible.
Dignity Extends Support to Rev. Dell for Blessing Same Sex Unions
DignityUSA has sent a public letter extending its prayers and support to Rev. Greg-ory Dell of Chicago, Illinois, who has been disciplined by the United Methodist Church for blessing same-sex unions. DignityUSA President Bob Miailovich called Dell's actions a reflection of God's all inclusive love and wrote: "Please know that we admire what you have done . . . your witness of justice and equality for gay and lesbian people is not only admired; it is a light of encouragement for all of us who work for religious and civil recognition of same-sex unions. The voices of opposition are strong, but your trial inspires us to keep on." Rev. Dell's situation touches Dignity particularly close to home since our Chicago chapter has been meeting at Dell's Broadway United Methodist Church for several years.
President Addresses Faith Leaders
On March 29, President Clinton sent a letter to leaders of faith communities across the nation, asking them "to speak to your community about hate crimes and ask your members to pray and work together to bring an end to such crimes." The President said: "For Christians, Muslims, and Jews this is a special time of year. For some a season of renewal and new beginnings, for others a time to atone for sins and to recognize that we are called to forgiveness and love." The faith leaders, in both their "unique role" in the lives of the followers of their faith and also as members of the larger community, were urged to use their "special place to help guide all Americans in understanding their own hearts and actions . . . ." The President pledged support for legislation to enhance Federal prosecution of hate crimes and his intention to continue to speak out vigorously against these crimes.
Cox Debates League's Bill Donohue
On Wednesday, March 30, DignityUSA's executive director Charles Cox debated the Catholic League's Bill Donohue on KFRE's Ken Kay show. The debate was prompted by the controversy in San Francisco over plans by the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence to hold a 20th Anniversary Party on Castro Street, the heart of the gay community, on Easter Sunday.
Cox used the opportunity to debate Donohue and correct the misinformation the Catholic League was saying about Dignity and its members. While debating Donohue, Cox defended the Sisters' right to free speech and freedom of assembly, but questioned the wisdom of holding such an event on Easter Sunday. Donohue was, in addition, clearly surprised and disappointed that his portrayal of Dignity, as well as that of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender Catholics was challenged and proven false.
Convention Corner:
Have YOU Completed Your Registration?
Send in your completed Convention 1999 registration TODAY! The 1999 Committee is proud and thrilled to offer Dignitarians from across the country the opportunity to partake of a wonderful line up of speakers, a bevy of workshops, three spirit filled liturgies, and the comforts of fabulous hotel. The Convention, slated for the Adam's Mark Hotel, will be another memorable Dignity family reunion. It will be a time to renew friendships, make new friends, fill your soul, and lift your spirit. See you in Denver in August!
Happy Anniversary
Chicago 27; San Diego 27; Cleveland 26; Philadelphia 26; Detroit 25; Dayton 24; Madison 22; Northern VA 7; San Fernando Valley 3
