* Pro-Active Response To Homophobia Charges

Dear Rogers Park Neighbors,

Just a reminder, I hope you will join me Wednesday, May 30 at 7pm when Good News Partners convenes a community meeting as part of a pro-active response to recent allegations that a lesbian was denied service at its shelter for homeless women because of her sexual orientation.

Bud Ogle, President of Good News Partners, has stated that his organization has a track record with its clients and staff of vigorous support for equal treatment, respect, and affirmation of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender community. In statements to the news media and community residents, Ogle stressed that there is no tolerance for homophobia in his organization and he plans a pro-active response to the issue.

Ogle invited Rogers Park's LGBT community residents, and all Good News Partners neighbors, to a meeting to discuss the allegations of anti-gay discrimination at its women's shelter.

The meeting will be held Wednesday, May 30 at 7pm at the Jonquil Hotel, 1600 W. Jonquil Avenue.

I met with Ogle last week and he said the incident prompted him to be proactive about the possibility that homophobic discrimination could occur, either in the past or future. At the community meeting, Ogle will share details of his organization's inquiry into the matter. He is asking for our input on the institution's new non-discrimination policy and will share plans to initiate staff sensitivity training on these issues.

I expect that this meeting will be the first step in establishing a new dialogue between Good News Partners and its neighbors on this discrimination issue, as well as future discussion on the organization's substantial housing and social service programs in the North of Howard community area of Rogers Park.

The text of the newly revised Non-Discrimination Policy: Good News Partners is committed to affirming, discerning, evoking and supporting the best in everyone. Following Christ's lead we welcome everyone and oppose every form of discrimination, injustice, prejudice, and harassment. In all of our housing and supportive activities we are eager to partner in creating better lives and a better world for all persons regardless of race, ethnic origin, religion, gender, age, ancestry, sexual orientation, physical handicap, marital status, veteran status or any other legally protected status.

Peace,

Michael Harrington