[sauu4equality]

Originally Posted by pbtn

Great posts so far, thanks for weighing in.

I agree that my use of the word "tolerant" was not quiet what I meant (I was typing fast, as I'm at work). I'm sure "accepting" is probably a better word. My friends know that I love them and respect the choices they've made with no judgement involved. I have other straight friends who "tolerate" homosexuals that we know "in spite of" their lifestyles, and I am definitely different than that.

Also, your point about the same logic being used by segregationists is well taken. I do realize that Bob Jones Univ. is a private school, and that is kind of my point. Although they have racist policies (they bar inter-racial dating, etc. . .), I feel it's their right as a private university to do so. It will be to their detriment, because they will become less relevant in today's world and will either have to change their policies or they will have to close the doors.

Stating the purposes of the ride from the FAQ's was helpful and helped me understand a little better the purpose of the ride. What prompted my post was I read a story about Columbia International Univ. not allowing their students to meet memebers of the ride because it didn't "adhere to their values". Although I know this attitude is based in bigotry, to me it's no different than student's at the women's college (I believe it was Smith College) protesting Barbara Bush's speaking there because her being a "housewife" didn't adhere to their values as what a college-educated woman should aspire to.

Your points are well taken. However, this year ER has not gone against any University's policy. They have fully respected the wishes of both universities they have visited. I don't think the Smith College thing is the same at all. We are not asking Columbia International to have Boy George speak at their graduation: just to have dialogue with students. Something that would be completely acceptable if they showed up unannounced on their own. As far as I know, as in most private colleges, these campuses are open to the public. Correct me if I'm wrong.