Leaders Call On Archbishop Cordileone to Not Participate in NOM's Hate March

Towleroad reports that California Lt. Governor Gavin Newsom and San Francisco Mayor Ed Lee are among more than 70 leaders who have called on San Francisco Archbishop Salvatore Cordileone not to participate in the National Organization for Marriage's (NOM) "March for Marriage" scheduled to take place on June 19 in Washington, D.C.

"We respect freedom of religion and understand that you oppose civil marriage for same-sex couples," write the diverse group of signers. "Many people of faith who have different opinions on the question of civil marriage for same-sex couples have come together in respectful dialogue and discernment to discuss those differences. Sadly, the actions of NOM and its invited speakers push us farther apart rather than bringing us together."

The dozens of officials who signed the letter face an uphill challenge in persuading Cordileone, who according to SFGate.com referred to gay marriage as "the ultimate attack of the Evil One." Cordileone was also instrumental in raising $1.5 million to get Proposition 8, which banned same-sex marriage in the Golden State, on the ballot in 2008.

SFGate points to a letter penned by Cordileone, where the archbishop explained his planned participation in NOM's upcoming march.

"The March for Marriage will be an important means to promote and defend marriage for the good of�our culture, to pray for our federal and state governments, and to stand in solidarity with people of�good will. It also complements well the bishops' Call to Prayer for Life, Marriage, and Religious�Liberty. This is a critical time for marriage in our country, as�marriage amendments are being struck down by federal courts and appeals of these decisions are�being made. We are deeply grateful for any support you can offer for this march."

If he attends on June 19, Cordileone will share the podium with an "all-star" lineup of anti-marriage equality advocates including failed GOP candidates Mike Huckabee and Rick Santorum, Rep. Tim Huelskamp (R-Kansas), New York State Senator Rev. Ruben Diaz (D-Bronx), and Doug Mainwaring the openly gay Tea Party activist who opposes same-sex marriage.