reader forum.

Tangled Tango

I read your interview with Matthew Perry regarding his most recent film and how he feels that it doesn't present a negative image of gays ["Matthew Perry's Gay Tango," November 9]. The television ads promoting the film, however, are a different story. After a few pratfalls featuring Neve Campbell, the announcer says, "And you're in love with your boss's girlfriend. How could things get any worse?" Perry's character then reacts with horror when he realizes his boss thinks he's gay. So basically the ad implies that the worst thing that could happen to you is to be thought of as gay. To my way of thinking, the worst thing that could happen is that a so-called comedy uses subtly homophobic ads to shop for a few laughs.

Everett Alexander, Oakland, Calif.

Higher learning

California governor Gray Davis is to be commended for making his state the fourth behind Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Wisconsin to protect students and teachers from being harassed on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity [At Issue, November 9]. The basic simplicity of the concept--that students, staff, and teachers should learn and work in environments free from ridicule and danger--makes it curious that this kind of policy isn't the law of the land. No matter how much we increase the education budget, beautify our schools, and employ teachers, staff, and administrators of only the highest caliber, learning will not take place if a student doesn't want to be in a classroom because of harassment.

Sharon Miken, Mike Chiumento NEA Gay and Lesbian Caucus Palmyra, N.J.

Reformed?

I have to question identifying Reform Party activist Lenora Fulani as a "longtime gay rights supporter" ["It's Pat!" November 9]. It's possible you know something I don't, but I've always had the impression of her and the New Alliance Party as accepting money from gays and lesbians but not doing a whole lot to give back. Her blithe support of Pat Buchanan just confirms my opinion of her.

Daniel McVey, Los Angeles, Calif.

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