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
____
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:
- 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
- Would your answer reflect the majority of members in your congregation? Yes
- 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
- Would your answer reflect the majority of members in your congregation? Yes
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
