Scientology Coming to Harlem

I don't doubt that you saw a bunch of Scientologist talking to a group of African Americans on Times Square. They may even have been Black Israelites. But would you like to tell me why you think Scientologists should be restricted in their freedom of speech or freedom of expression? Could it be you have bought the propaganda on the Net to such an extent that you would judge Scientologists so quickly? Read back over your post. Substitute the word "Jew" or the word "Gay" where you have referred to Scientologists. Suddenly it looks like you're a bigot.... Ah. You don't seem like the kind of person who is necessarily intolerant. So I'd suggest you check out what Scientology is really all about.

LBWBL: I have actually studied the topic quite a bit, and I stand by my opinion, although I have said nothing about curtailing anyone's free speech. I do hope that your organization would also uphold the principle of free speech as it applies to my opinions expressed here.

Substitute the word nazi and it goes back the other way. The associative principle fails again.

For those readers who may not be familiar with the topic, I'd encourage you to read this extensive Rolling Stone piece, as a counterpoint to the link posted above. (link fixed now)

Where's the Rolling Stone article? Your link goes to wikipedia.

Wouldn't it be great if the Black Israelites -- the same men who called my friend D. a "sellout" because we were walking together -- had actually allowed themselves to be convinced by a bunch of Scientologists that it would be a good idea for them to move into Harlem? I love the idea of secret plans, but I'm sure it's just a matter of money, since the city would love for Harlem to be gentrified... and what better way than by allowing a cult with lots of cash to take over a few of those gorgeous old brownstones?

Drug counseling and literacy programs somehow lose their punch when they appear under a thin veil of "aid" backed by money garnered through fraud.

Jay:

You say "Rolling Stone piece" but link to Wikipedia.

LBWBL:

I don't believe "gay" could be substituted; Scientology and Judaism are both belief systems. And fairly implausible ones at that. (I'm Jewish.)

Let me flip it another way: why is Scientology any more credible or deserving of respect than, say, Satanism or Voodoo?

D was a sellout. Dianetics chapter 9 page 76... Read!

a cult.
im tired of being afraid of steppin on peoples toes
cult
any church that only helps you if you pay first is not worth my time.
any faith that wont let you discuss a subject just because im not a cetain "level" in their church just cause i didnt pay enough for their faith.
some of this applies to catholics as well but thats another conversation all together. let the scientology lawyers get me.....

LMAO, Scientologists believe in aliens & the Black Israelites dress like aliens. Perfect match,lol. Funny shit. I think it's a plot too.

Just as Harlem becomes more economically viable and it's residents have some money, Scientology moves there to scam it out of them.
SCIENTOLOGY = CON