The Mormon Church has been active in efforts to oppose same-sex marriages, with a strong focus on California’s Proposition 8. The Mormon Church spent $22 million to fight the California marriage battle even though the Mormon population in the state is approximately 2%. It is evident that the nation’s 4th largest church plans to remain active in the fight against LGBT rights using discriminatory arguments. Only you can open the hearts and minds of your brothers and sisters in faith to help them realize the harm that their actions are causing to you, your friends and your family. Let them know that same-sex marriages do not “erode…the moral character of children” but instead allows two committed individuals to experience the same legal rights and responsibilities that heterosexual married couples share.
“…By contrast, the legalization of same-sex marriage likely will erode the social identity, gender development, and moral character of children. Is it really wise for society to pursue such a radical experiment without taking into account its long-term consequences for children?” [The Divine Institute of Marriage, Published by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 13 August 2008]
Faith In America recognizes that it is impossible to change the official position of the Mormon Church leadership overnight but we can start changing the attitudes of your family, friends and neighbors. The Mormon Initiative seeks to change people one person at a time.
Here is how you can help:
- Organize a house party and share your story.
- Download video testimonials to show others in your community how religion-based bigotry affects real people.
- Encourage discussion and invite people to share their personal stories of religion-based bigotry.
- Encourage others to speak up when they witness bigotry.
- Record your story and upload it to Faith in America and we will share it on our YouTube page!
If you have questions about the LDS Initiative or would like help with your efforts email LDSinitiative@faithinamerica.org