Journey to LGBTQIA+ Inclusion Video #1
Journey to LGBTQIA+ Inclusion Video #1
On June 28, 1969, an uprising at New York’s Stonewall Inn brought the LGBTQIA+ community together and lit the spark for the Gay Liberation Movement in the United States.
Just five years later, David Sindt held up a sign at the186th General Assembly of the UPCUSA in Louisville, Kentucky that simply asked: “Is anyone else out there gay?” Watch the first video in our three-part series to learn how LGBTQIA+ Presbyterians' calls to ministry during the 1970's led the General Assembly to question and take action on its stance on gay ordination.
Visit the links below to explore some of the histories and resources included in this video.
Hear the Voices
Library of Congress Video: Gay and Proud
Documentary of the earliest gay pride demonstrations commemorating the first anniversary of the Stonewall Uprising.
David Sindt Sermon at Lincoln Park Presbyterian Church
On September 24, 1972, David Sindt preached on the need for the church to connect with the local gay community in his sermon, "Gaily Forward."
Chris Glaser Oral History
Chris Glaser was the only gay member of the UPCUSA’s Taskforce to Study Homosexuality.
LGBTQ Religious Archives Network: Bill Silver Profile
Bill Silver's 1975 call to ministry led to the New York City Presbytery to seek definitive guidance on gay ordination from the General Assembly.
Read About the General Assembly’s Actions
UPCUSA Taskforce to Study Homosexuality
In September 1976, the UPCUSA formed a Task Force to Study Homosexuality.
Explore LGBTQIA+ Ministries to Find Additional Resources
LGBTQIA+ Ministries
The General Assembly established the Advocacy Committee for LGBTQIA+ Equity to focus on promoting and ensuring equal rights and opportunities for LGBTQIA+ individuals. Advocacy committees within the denomination serve as a mechanism for accountability and prophetic witness. Together with ministry areas such as Women and Gender Justice, the advocacy committee seeks to address and rectify injustices faced by LGBTQIA+ groups and other groups historically marginalized and silenced due to oppressive power structures perpetuated by human sinfulness.