Affirmation Responds to LDS Church’s Announcement on Non-Discrimination

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) announced January 27, 2015 their support for non-discrimination of LGBT citizens in housing, employment and public accommodations as long as it is balanced with legislation protecting religious freedoms. Because Affirmation is a diverse community with diverse perspectives, responses to the announcement were mixed with reactions ranging from hope for a better conversation and cautious optimism to frustration and outright skepticism of how religious protections may diminish non-discrimination laws.

Overall, we appreciate the Church’s willingness to open the dialogue again and support non-discrimination legislation. We are also pleased by the Church’s public recognition of the “centuries of ridicule, persecution and even violence against homosexuals,” its statement “that such treatment was simply wrong,” and it’s affirmation of Jesus Christ’s fundamental teachings and perfect example of fairness, love, and inclusion.

Unfortunately, many LGBTQ Mormons have suffered such ridicule and persecution within their own faith and families, resulting for some in homelessness and exclusion from their congregations.  We hope this official announcement will continue to open up the conversation for LDS leaders, wards, parents, and families to find ways to be more inclusive and loving of their LGBT brothers and sisters, children and neighbors.

Affirmation does not take positions on the Church’s doctrine of marriage yet affirms the inherent value and respect deserved of all families, including those formed by loving and committed same-sex relationships.   For more information on Affirmation visit us at www.affirmation.org

Affirmation Executive Committee:

Randall Thacker, President

Todd Richardson, Senior Vice President

Kathy Carlston, Vice President

Contact Affirmation Vice President Kathy Carlston at [email protected] with press inquiries related to this announcement.

About Affirmation:

• Affirmation supports tens of thousands of LGBTQ/SSA Mormons worldwide and their families, friends and Church leaders in seeking to live healthy and productive lives consistent with their faith or heritage.
• We provide a loving, inclusive community for all LGBTQ/SSA people, and those who love them, regardless of how they identify in their sexual orientation, gender identity, or faith.
• We encourage spirituality and empower LGBTQ/SSA Mormons to make valuable contributions within and outside of the Church.
• We organize local gatherings and international conferences, provide informational resources, and work for dialogue within the Church.

About Affirmation’s History:  https://affirmation.org/who-we-are/our-history/