In a move that's stirred up a few double-takes across the community today, Salt Lake City has passed anti-discrimination laws in housing and employment--with a little bit of help and support from Mormon leaders.
Whether it's a bit of PR spin to try to come off as less-hateful, or to give the illusion of evolving since being awarded "America's biggest foe of equality" title for majorly contributing to the passage of Prop 8, or simply a Christian-like gesture for once, the Mormons came out in support of the anti-discrimination legislation, helping it pass last night in SLC.
"The church supports these ordinances," LDS spokesmen Michael Otterson said, "because they are fair and reasonable and do not do violence to the institution of marriage."
"They also are consistent with Mormon teachings," he added. "I believe in a church that believes in human dignity, in treating people with respect even when we disagree -- in fact, especially when we disagree."
So as long as you don't feel we "threaten" your idea of "marriage," you won't vilify us and destroy our families? I'm sorry; though I'm thrilled that the Salt Lake ordinance passed without controversy, I believe the LDS has much, much more work to do to mend fences with a community they've pillaged and fought a harsh, unethical one-sided war against for decades now.
Article continues below...
What do you think of the Mormon gesture? Olive branch or lame PR attempt?
Updated: The HRC responds to LDS support of pro-gay ordinance
STATEMENT FROM HUMAN RIGHTS CAMPAIGN RELIGION AND FAITH PROGRAM DIRECTOR HARRY KNOX:
“This has happened in the LDS Church because people are telling their clergy leaders they believe the church should be about lifting people up, not pushing them down. This decision is the result of vocal and consistent advocacy by LGBT people, their family and friends, inside and outside the LDS church. Employment and housing protections for LGBT people is fully embraced by mainstream America and the LDS Church is simply coming into the fold. We hope the LDS church will commit the same level of resources to ensuring full employment protection to everyone as it did to deny marriage equality to loving, same-sex couples in California.”
Comments (3)
... written by TJarboe,
November 11, 2009
Def a lame PR attempt! It will take A LOT more for me to forgive the rights they helped take away from me!!!
+0
... written by JR P,
November 11, 2009
I think they are trying to rehabilitate their image.
