James Hormel

* Kudos to President Clinton for appointing gay activist James C. Hormel ambassador to Luxembourg during the Senate recess (June 5). The action of a very few but vocal Republican senators had prevented the appointment from going to a floor vote, in spite of an overwhelming approval of Hormel by the Foreign Relations Committee.

Hormel’s opponents cite his appearance at gay rights parades and support for San Francisco’s Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence as evidence of his unfitness. The last time I checked, this was still a free country where, among other things, people could attend legal gatherings without fear of being photographed and later attacked and could poke harmless fun at religious organizations without serious retribution.

BOB CONSTANTINE

Placentia

* Hormel was not denied confirmation by the Senate because he was found wanting--he was never even given a hearing!

In my prior role as director of the Anti-Defamation League’s Central Pacific Region, I had occasion to become acquainted with the ambassador and with those in the legal, philanthropic, cultural and civil rights communities who hold him in the highest regard. He is widely known for his civic commitment and philanthropy. Except for those who are obsessed with sexual orientation, Hormel is not defined by his gayness but by his abilities and contributions.

BARBARA H. BERGEN

Marina del Rey

* The sale of ambassadorships is a well-established tradition in our government, although Hormel undoubtedly paid more than the usual rate for his. One wonders how the people of Luxembourg and elsewhere will react to this diplomatic twist.

W.A. MUELLER

Sherman Oaks