http://www.philly.com/inquirer/opinion/20080706_Religion_in_America_is_o...

To the editor:

Apparently the "open, tolerant" America which Ron Sider describes has
not stopped intolerant armies from restricting abortion to prevent Jews
from legally exercising the teachings of their faith. These same
"tolerant" guerillas have contributed to the closing of hospital
gynecology and obstetric departments throughout the country, as doctors
look to less legally risky venues -- or even changing their own
specialties. It has not stopped constitutional radicals from imposing
their religious views of marriage on civil ceremonies. It has not
stopped denominational schools from seeking state support for the
religious training of their congregation's children. It has not stopped
bigots like Michelle Malkin from objecting to paisley scarfs in Dunkin
Donut ads -- claiming that female Rachel Ray is wearing a male Muslim
kaffieyeh with her head uncovered (as much an insult to Islam as Malkin
claims insults America).

Recent constitutional amendments in California, West Virginia, and
elsewhere show that the coercive religious are still a danger to
America's tolerance.

Ben Burrows
406 Shoemaker Road
Elkins Park, PA 19027
215-266-2029