Attacks on ‘Christian Right’

I am concerned at the comments of several Democratic political figures, including the President of the United States, in regard to Christians and their political activities (June 25, 26). It was my understanding that there was freedom of religion in this nation. I would hardly consider myself part of the “religious right,” but somehow, given this series of attacks, my actions, opinions and statements within the political and social arena are now totally disqualified as being “intolerant.”

It is impossible for any American, regardless of religious or spiritual belief, creed or background, to simply put that part of himself aside while acting within our constitutional rights as American citizens, to vote, to organize peaceably, to speak freely, and to act as we see fit in accordance with the law. Everyone here has something he or she places his or her faith in, and people cannot talk of “intolerance” or “bigotry” and at the same time focus attacks on particular people here in America simply because they don’t like where (or in whom) we place our faith.

What truly concerns me is not that I am afraid of having my political rights stripped by innuendo and malice: That is among the least that we have gladly suffered for his sake. It is that political and social elements in this nation are intentionally trying to undermine a particular faith, discouraging those who might seek grace within it, simply for short-term political gain, viewing religion as nothing more than an extension of politics.

SHAWN DUDLEY

Van Nuys

* Re “Elders’ Comments on Religious Right Spark GOP Call for Her Ouster,” June 25: Rep. Cliff Stearns (R-Fla.) states, “She should be using this office to fight sickness and disease . . . “ It would seem to me that is precisely what she is doing. Speaking out against the ugly and killing sickness and disease of bigotry, intolerance, ignorance and hate does “advance the general health and welfare of all Americans.” Her message is a call to reason amid the din from those who would promote ignorance, proclaim their patriotism while maneuvering to diminish, deny and destroy our rights and freedoms, and hatefully assert a perversion of the lesson of the teacher Jesus.

STEPHEN SCHERTZER

Hawthorne