Baha'i participation in Springfield Missouri LGBT Civil Rights Survey

Hello friends,

I wanted to share an interesting, yet upsetting situation out of Springfield Missouri's Baha'i community concerning participation in an LGBT civil rights survey.  As always there is something to be learned from such a situation, and of course I had to write the National Spiritual Assembly bringing this to their attention.  A lot has happened in the American Baha'i community as we face this sensitive , yet timely subject.  Much I do not agree with, but any talk is good (voice of optimism).  Progress can only happen if those who remain silent speak up and bring forth a voice of reason, love, acceptance to the table.  I look forward to National's response. 

love,

S R

Palm Springs, CA

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Sent: Thursday, June 20, 2013 11:37 PM
Subject: Baha'i participation in Springfield Missouri LGBT Civil Rights Survey

Dear National Spiritual Assembly,

With a heavy heart I write you with news published online and in print concerning a survey that representatives of the Local Spiritual Assembly of Springfield Missouri took part in.  The survey is from a local faith subcommittee task force on faith and gender identity concerning LGBT civil rights and protection in the city of Springfield. As a gay man I am concerned that an LSA would publicly endorse discrimination against LGBT people in light of your recent guidance that has been recirculated this year.  The civil rights of LGBT people (workplace protection, fair and equal housing, and inclusion in being a protected minority class) does not conflict with Baha'i law.  There has been some progress in the American Baha'i community in regards to this topic, discussions are occurring, presentations are being made, LGBT Baha'is are meeting each other for the first time in a spirit of love and support, yet moments like this take our community ten steps back.  The following was the response of the Springfield LSA to the survey:

1. Do you agree that the Springfield City Code should be amended to add sexual orientation and gender identity to the city’s nondiscrimination ordinance? No
2. Would your answer reflect the majority of members in your congregation? Yes
3. If the task force finds that there is discrimination based on sexual orientation and/or gender identity in housing, employment, and/or public accommodations in Springfield, would you support adding sexual orientation and gender identity to the city’s nondiscrimination ordinance? No
4. Would your answer reflect the majority of members in your congregation? Yes

http://www.springfieldmo.gov/taskforce/sogi/pdfs/faithSubcomRpt.pdf

I do hope that there can be consultation with the LSA of Springfield Missouri regarding this sensitive topic.  I appreciate your continued efforts in addressing this topic, and look forward to your guidance in the future.  

With love always,

S R