SCHAKOWSKY RESPONDS TO HATEFUL ATTACKS ON GAYS BY REPUBLICAN MEMBER OF CONGRESS

OCTOBER 21, 2003

SCHAKOWSKY RESPONDS TO HATEFUL ATTACKS ON GAYS BY REPUBLICAN MEMBER OF CONGRESS

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky (D-IL) today issued the following statement in response to comments made by U.S. Representative Zack Wamp (R-TN). According to the Washington Post (10/21/03), Wamp called homosexuality a "sin," a "sickness," and "unnatural," while speaking out against gay unions.

"Representative Zack Wamp's comments were offensive, unenlightened and uninformed. Unfortunately, Congressman Wamp's comments echo earlier statements made by President Bush where he seemed to equate homosexuality with sin. Such inflammatory statements add fuel to the fire of bigotry and put in real danger our neighbors, friends, and constituents," Schakowsky said.

"For a political Party that supposedly prides itself on family values, I do not understand why Republicans feel threatened by long-term, monogamous and loving relationships. President Bush and the Republican leadership should immediately repudiate Congressman Wamp's comments. The hate campaign against gays and lesbians must cease and desist," Schakowsky concluded.