WASHINGTON, Sept. 17 /U.S. Newswire/ -- A coalition of Pagan groups today
denounced remarks made by Jerry Falwell and Pat Robertson on the "700
Club" broadcast on Sept. 13.
The coalition issued the following statement today:
"It is with profound regret and outrage that our coalition of national
Pagan organizations, clergy, civil rights advocates and community organizers
notes the irresponsible statements made by Jerry Falwell and Pat Robertson on
the "700 Club" broadcast on September 13, 2001."
"We would like to remind Mr. Falwell and Mr. Robertson that the recent
heinous acts of terrorism suffered by our country were perpetrated by fanatics
intending to reduce our citizenry to their level. These acts were certainly not
perpetrated by Pagans. While Mr. Falwell has issued a general apology, his
attempt to turn a horrible tragedy to personal gain is reprehensible and must
be seen for what it is."
"In this time of great crisis, people of faith turn to their leaders for
guidance. American Pagan leaders have supported rescue and relief efforts from
the first hours of the tragedies. We are continuing to marshal our resources to
provide aid to the stricken, as well as to protect and defend our American
Muslim brothers and sisters from unwarranted bigotry and attacks. We call upon
Mr. Falwell and Mr. Robertson to join with us in caring for those in need and
treating as sacred our deeply held American principle of religious
freedom."