Exodus International - Call for Equal Protection for All Americans

Orlando, FL- Representatives from Exodus International, the world's largest outreach to those dealing with unwanted same-sex attraction, joined notable African American leaders today at a press conference held at the Cannon House Office Building to discuss how "hate crimes" legislation is an affront to the African American and religious communities.

H.R. 1592, the "Local Law Enforcement Hate Crimes Prevention Act of 2007," and a companion bill introduced in the Senate, S. 1102, will empower the federal government to prosecute "hate-crimes" based on a person's "sexual orientation, gender identity, gender and disability." This legislation would pave the way to criminalize thoughts and religious beliefs contrary to politically correct ideology. A subcommittee of the House Judiciary Committee held a hearing on April 17 and a full committee vote is expected this week.

Bishop Harry Jackson, Jr., Founder and Chairman of High Impact Leadership Coalition and host of the national commentary "The Truth in Black and White," as well as other African American clergy such as gospel music artist Pastor Marvin Winans, Bishop Larry Brandon and Bishop Liston Paige, Jr. spoke out against the notion that sexuality should be equated to race and civil rights at the press conference today. In addition, local clergy representing thousands of parishioners joined them in expressing concern regarding the weakening of religious freedoms.

"We stand today with many in the African American community who also recognize that one's sexuality can be changed, but one's skin color cannot," said Alan Chambers, former homosexual and President of Exodus International. "We call upon Congress to promote legislation that affirms authentic equality and protects our religious freedoms."

Chambers added, "This legislation says that we, as former homosexuals, are of less value and worth less legal protection now than when we were living as homosexuals. We categorically reject this mindset and reaffirm every American's value and right to equal protection under the law."