Yes! This Is Exactly What We Need.

It seems like the Pope opened the floor gates! And it is for the good.

Interfaith coalition: End political hate speech against LGBTQIA+ residents | Opinion

Knox News

The Knox Pride Interfaith Coalition

February 7, 2023

As the Tennessee state legislature begins its work in this new year, we, an ecumenical coalition of clergy, rabbis and faith leaders from different religious traditions in East Tennessee, wish to declare that we stand proudly alongside all of those who are part of the LGBTQIA+ community. We affirm lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer members of our community, of our state, of our nation and of the world, unconditionally and unequivocally.

While we walk different spiritual paths, we are united in supporting each individual’s human dignity and worth. We believe every person in Tennessee, and beyond, should feel safe and nurtured as they live their lives. We are united in believing that our LGBTQIA+ siblings are beloved children of God, however each of us defines that term, and are entitled to a safe space to be fully themselves.

Therefore, we urge an end to political hate speech against these communities and their members. Hate speech dehumanizes our friends and neighbors. Dehumanization leads to violence. We urge all citizens of the state of Tennessee, and especially our elected officials, to cease any form of speech that demonizes, vilifies and dehumanizes members of the LGBTQIA+ community.

[…]

And to the LGBTQIA+ community: As leaders from a diversity of faiths, despite our differences of belief and creed, each of us agrees that you are loved – some would say God’s beloved. No matter how you identify, no matter which part of the LGBTQIA+ spectrum you are part of, we believe you hold beauty, worth and dignity. You strengthen our cities and our state, and we thank you for that. We stand with you. Know that we see you. Know that we love you. Know that we proclaim love.

Thank you!

We need you to speak up and denounce these horrible laws and political attacks against the LGBTQ people because when we speak up nobody listens but when 135 religious leaders from all faiths speak up against the political animosity us people listen. It will not change the radical right-wing, but the “silent majority” will listen and hopefully also speak up at the voting booth.

And an important message to our community, to my lesbian, gay, bi, queer, and trans community do not paint all religions the same! There are many religions that support us and are affirming. Do not burn our bridges to them.