The Southern Baptist Convention voted overwhelmingly today to
boycott Walt Disney theme parks, movies and products for, among
other things, extending benefits to companions of gay employees.
   The boycott resolution was approved by a simple show of hands
by an estimated 13,000 delegates representing roughly 16 million
Southern Baptists. There were few negative votes, and passage was
greeted with enthusiastic applause. 

   The Baptists also objected to Disney allowing gay- and
lesbian- themed events at its theme parks, and also to its
production, through subsidiaries, of controversial adult-themed
movies. 

   "In recent years, the Disney Co. has given the appearance that
the promotion of homosexuality is more important than its
historic commitment to traditional family values", the resolution
stated in part.
    Disney officials did not immediately respond to a telephone
call for comment.  


[The article concludes with the following quote]:

   "Disney always has been associated with family values", the
convention's newly elected president, the Rev. Tom Elliff, had
said a day before the vote.  "I don't think we can say that anymore."