Statement Of Christopher Reeve Regarding His Remarks To The Guardian Newspaper

9/17/2002

From: Colleen Dermody of Witeck-Combs Communications, 202-887-0500 ext. 18

WASHINGTON, Sept. 17 -- The following statement of Christopher Reeve regarding his remarks to the 'Guardian Newspaper' was released today:

My remarks about President Bush consulting with Catholics before issuing his decision concerning embryonic stem cell research on August 9, 2001 were not intended to disparage the Catholic Church or Catholics in any way.

Freedom of religion is a basic principle of our society. I would never criticize anyone for being a practicing Catholic, nor would I tolerate criticism against me for being a practicing Unitarian.

However, I do believe in the separation of church and state. Our government should not be influenced by any religion when matters of public policy are being debated. Because the Catholic position was given so much publicity at the time, I singled them out for criticism. It was absolutely inappropriate for me to do so. I wish to apologize not only to the Catholic Church but also to the faithful of any religion who may have been offended.