'I'm Not Ashamed Of My Opinions'

How about needle exchange programs--and the studies that show they reduce infection rates?

First off, IV-drug use is illegal. So I disagree with the assumptions of the studies. And I disagree with needle exchange. I think it's failed compassion. If you want to help somebody help them get off drugs. Don't give them clean needles. That is a poor substitute for eliminating HIV. That's a personal opinion, again, that's not necessary what the committee is going to do.

Opinions like that, which are shared by some of the new committee members, have caused deep suspicions among AIDS leaders toward the Presidential Advisory Council. GMHC calls the entire panel a "patronage pool" for Christian fundamentalists. Do you think that is fair?

You know, that's just like the Christians preaching hate to the gay community. What is the prism of Christian fundamentalism? You know, how I see that is: Jesus said there are two commandments, love god and love your neighbor. That's the fundamentalism that I follow.

© 2002