The Human Rights Campaign Fund said "We feel a deep level of disrespect when one of the architects and promoters of an anti-gay agenda is given the prominence and the pulpit of your historic nomination," further, "By inviting Rick Warren to your inauguration, you have tarnished the view that gay, lesbian, bisexual and trans-gender Americans have a place at your table," according to letter sent to President Elect Obama.

"He selected someone who actively worked to eliminate the rights of me and millions of others," said Geoff Kors, executive director of Equality California and a leader I the fight against Prop 8, which is in effect while it is challenged in court. We believe statements such as this are counterproductive when said in anger, or with hostility. Clearly we have a president elect who supports our humanity.

While we respect the wonderful work the Human Rights Campaign Fund and Equality California has done on the part of the Gay/Lesbian/Bisexual/Trans-gender Community, we must voice a different opinion. We echo Obama's call that we must all come together even when we disagree on social issues. Obama said "That dialog is part of what my campaign is about". The call for "Common Ground" is deeply felt and understood among members of the Rainbow Sash Movement and our allies.

Our initial statement concerning this matter on our web site has been met with hostility. The path forward is clear to us, especially during this Advent Season. We must never lose hope for common cause, and continue to proclaim love of God, and neighbor.

In California we have witnessed in the aftermath of Proposition 8 a wave of hostility on both sides. We continue to call for dialog with religious leadership of California on this matter. The situation has been exacerbated by the inflammatory rhetoric on all sides. Hate should have no place in a movement that has its roots in Stonewall and/or Jesus Christ. It is time for healing, and yes reconciliation.

The president-elect on Thursday said that he held views "absolutely contrary" to Warren on gay rights and abortion and described himself as "a fierce advocate for equality for gay and lesbian Americans."

Obama opposed California's ban on gay marriage. He generally has said he supports equal rights under the law for same-sex couples.

We are concerned that prayer is being politicized by promoting a mentality of intolerance directed at Rev. Rick Warren. The Rainbow Sash Movement disagrees with Warren on the issue of gay marriage, but we do agree with his work around the issue of HIV/AIDS, the poor both gay and straight, and efforts to protect the environment. We must be able talk to each other even when we have differences and/or agreements, or nothing will change. What is needed is a change of heart over a change of position.

During this Holy Season of Christmas we call on all people of good will to reach out to each other, both gay and straight, to seek common ground.