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PRESS RELEASE April 11, 2008 For Immediate Release Contact: Martha Kendall Holmes 405-286-4540 National Association of Social Workers
Sally Kern's comments promote exclusion rather than inclusion.
OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - April 11, 2008 - The National Association of Social Workers, Oklahoma Chapter (NASW-OK), affirms its support and adherence to organizational policy regarding gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender issues. This policy, adopted by the NASW Delegate Assembly in 1999, states that persons of same-gender sexual orientation should be afforded the same respect and rights as persons of other gender sexual orientation. We believe that discrimination and prejudice directed against any group is damaging to the social, emotional and economic well-being of the affected group and of society as a whole.
The Board of NASW-OK is deeply concerned about the condemnatory comments of State Representative Sally Kern, especially coming from an elected public official of Oklahoma. These comments promote disharmony rather than harmony, exclusion rather than inclusion, discrimination over acceptance, and ignorance over understanding. Her comments negate the fundamental personhood and contribution of a group of Oklahomans who work, pay taxes, and vote like the rest of us. Representative Kern's comments go against the tenants of the social work profession.
To encourage reconciliation (a social work and spiritual value), an apology is requested from Representative Kern accompanied by respectful, constructive dialogue with representatives of Oklahoma's gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender community.
Ron Marlett has announced that he will run against Sally Kern in the next election. Let's support him in his efforts and send a message that clearly says, "Intolerance is no longer going to be tolerated."
Ron's web site: www.ronmarlettforhousedistrict84.com
The audio meeting with PFLAG and Kern. Kern said that PFLAG misstated her views. Judge for yourself.
The Sally Kern video that stirred up the world: