“We ask for your assurance that these discussions will be pursued diligently and in good faith,” the letter states. “And we ask either that alumni be included in the discussions or that you give us regular updates on their progress.”

Parry said HGLC members could contribute to the discussions because many are legal experts.

University General Counsel Robert W. Iuliano ’83 wrote in an e-mail that “experienced Washington counsel” is helping the University in the talks.

“[We] are committed to advancing the University’s position through our discussions with the government,” Iuliano wrote.

Founded in 1983, HGLC pressured Harvard administrators nearly 20 years ago to include sexual orientation in the University’s nondiscrimination policy.

Parry said the group’s latest fight over recruitment is driven by its belief that Harvard should maintain its commitment to nondiscrimination and honor gay rights.

“Principles are worth something, which is why our community keeps bringing them up,” he said. “We’re trying to hold [Summers] to higher values.”

Parry said the group has no plans to litigate.

“We’re out there to encourage the appropriate people to do that,” he said.

—Staff writer Andrew C. Esensten can be reached at esenst@fas.harvard.edu.