Thanks to everyone for educating me about the StoptheACLU group and their actions. Yesterday I wrote to them from the link supplied in one of Hunter's writings. Initially I got an automated response back, but today I got another reply. Here's the exchange...
First, the email I wrote yesterday:
-------- Original Message --------
Subject: harassment
Date: Wed, July 05, 2006 7:44 pm
To: info@stoptheaclu.org
Sir:
It is reprehensible that your organization is harassing a family due to their religious beliefs. I ask that you remove the family's name and address and any other contact information from your website, AND that you reexamine your values. Why are you condoning acts of violence and harassment against children?
May the grace of God be with you this day.
John E.
Washington State
_____________
Now, here's their short reply:
____________
Point out where we are attributing violence on the site, John E. Did you read the disclaimer, lib?
______________
Now here's what I'm sending next:
Dear Sir/Madam:
Thank you for responding to my email.
My name is John. I find it curious that you used the phrase "lib" to address me. You don't know who I am. I'm assuming you mean "liberal", used in a rather sarcastic and mean-spirited way. That shows me a little of your character. I have not called you names, as I also don't know who you are. And by the way, politically I'm an independent.
A pack of cigarettes also has a disclaimer on it. That does not stop people from smoking them, nor does it stop some smokers from getting cancer. So, I'm very glad that you have a disclaimer, but that still does not change my concern. You know that there are people out there who will use the address you published and harass the family (a family with children) mentioned. Therefore, your awareness makes you responsible. If you weren't aware before this email, you are aware now. Although I doubt that I'm the first to write you about this.
The bottom line question from me today is:
Why are you publishing the address of a family? What is your purpose?
I'm quite sure that Jesus would not do this if he were alive today. I kindly request that you remove the address and never publish a private family's address again.
Sincerely,
John E.
Washington State
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A few thoughts and notes:
I think it is important to take the "high ground" in these discussions. Immature arguing and name calling do not result in anything more than continued hurt feelings.
I wonder how many emails he/she/they have responded to... Do you think massive emails changes anything?
Many of these groups claim to be Christian, or they use phrases like "God bless you". If truly they are, in their own beliefs, Christian, then it behooves those of us who are also Christian to call into question their moral process, and backing those questions up with examples when we can.
Hate is a strong motivator.
And Hate comes from Fear.
What are they truly, deeply afraid of?
Good luck to all of us who are engaging in this debate, and in holding fearmongers accoutable. Thanks to all who refuse to stay silent, and who stand for Peace!