East Tennessee Clergy Unite to Affirm LGBTQIA+ Dignity and Worth
As the Tennessee state legislature begins a new year, an ecumenical coalition of clergy, rabbis, and faith leaders from different religious traditions in East Tennessee stands proudly alongside all members of the LGBTQIA+ community.[0] They unequivocally affirm lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer members of their community, of their state, of their nation, and of the world.[0]
Despite walking different spiritual paths, the coalition is united in supporting each individual’s human dignity and worth.[1] They believe that everyone in Tennessee, and beyond, should feel safe and nurtured as they live their lives, and that LGBTQIA+ siblings are beloved children of God, however each of them defines that term.[0]
The coalition urges an end to political hate speech against these communities and their members.[0] They oppose Tennessee Senate Bills SB001, SB003, and SB005, as they prioritize discrimination against members of the LGBTQIA+ community and further stigmatize and dehumanize entire segments of the population.[0]
Finally, the coalition affirms in the strongest language possible the beauty, dignity, and worth of all human beings, including LGBTQIA+ people. They are committed to showing love for all and building a community where everyone is safe, nurtured, treasured, and loved.[0]
To the LGBTQIA+ community, the coalition proclaims their love and stands with them, affirming that they hold beauty, worth, and dignity. The coalition thanks them for strengthening their cities and their state.
0. “In Opposition To Government Overreach Into The LGBTQIA+ Community – And Response (3)” The Chattanoogan, 3 Feb. 2023, https://www.chattanoogan.com/2023/2/3/463572/In-Opposition-To-Government-Overreach.aspx
1. “Interfaith coalition: End political hate speech against LGBTQIA+ residents | Opinion” Knoxville News Sentinel, 7 Feb. 2023, https://www.knoxnews.com/story/opinion/2023/02/07/opinion-end-political-hate-speech-against-lgbtqia-tennesseans/69878796007
