Welcome & Introductory Letter from Rev. Perry...

Dear Friend:

I want to share with you an important way you can help in the ongoing struggle for equality and justice.

While the information and resources included here have been designed for use by Metropolitan Community Churches, they may be easily adapted by other activists and community groups.

I am asking our community's leaders to do what we do best: Rise to the occasion and take a public stand as part of our commitment to social action.

Let me explain:

A coalition of 22 right wing and religious fundamentalist groups have announced plans to observe the week of October 12-18 as "Marriage Protection Week: A Week Dedicated To Preserving The Sacred Institution Of Marriage."

This coalition is working hard to stop the movement toward same-sex marriage rights. In fact, if you read their literature, many of these groups want to stop all legal protections for gays, lesbians, bisexuals, and transgender persons.

This right-wing coalition is made up of names and groups you will easily recognize -- Jerry Falwell, Concerned Women for America, Phyllis Schlafly, William Bennett, the Family Research Council, Dr. James Dobson's Focus on the Family, the Traditional Values Coalition, the 19-million member Southern Baptist Convention, and scores of fundamentalist Christian radio and television stations.

During the week of October 12-18, 2003, these groups will generate huge press coverage for their cause -- and against our community!

We must not be silent.

We must make our voices heard.

We must respond positively and proactively to these messages of intolerance, oppression and hate.

As a positive countervoice, MCC churches are joining hands with activists and GLBT groups to observe the week of October 12-19 as "Marriage Equality Week."

Our observance of "Marriage Equality Week" at the same time we are being attacked by the Religious Right will provide many opportunities in your community for media and press coverage -- and your participation will highlight the ongoing struggle for justice and equality.

For the past 35 years, MCC has consistently been involved in Christian Social Action as one important way to live out our faith. Your voice for equality on the marriage issue will serve to empower our community and educate our society.

Troy Perry
Rev. Troy D. Perry
MCC Founder and Moderator

NOTE:
These materials have been designed for U.S.-based activists as a positive countervoice to a right-wing attack on same-sex marriage scheduled for mid-October. These materials may be easily adapted for use in other countries and cultures.