Journey to LGBTQIA+ Inclusion Video #2
Journey to LGBTQIA+ Inclusion Video #2
In 1978, the General Assembly of the UPCUSA approved a minority report from the Task Force to Study Homosexuality, banning LGBTQIA+ people from holding official leadership roles in churches and in the denomination.
The UPCUSA’s declaration marked a turning point in Presbyterians’ historic fight for LGBTQIA+ inclusion. In the decades that followed, gay and straight Presbyterians worked tirelessly side by side for the rights of LGBTQIA+ people — within the denomination and beyond.
Visit the links below to explore some of the histories and resources included in this video.
Hear the Voices and Witness the Impact
1991 Silent Protest
Video of a silent protest by LGBTQIA+ Presbyterians at the 203rd General Assembly.
HIV/AIDS: Stories of Mutual Ministry
Video produced around 1992 that introduces viewers to ordinary people who have been forced to confront the AIDS disease and the stigmas and isolation that were part of the crisis.
Beyond Fear
1986 American Red Cross produced video to educate and address myths surrounding the HIV/AIDS disease.
Oral Histories
Watch and listen to oral histories with people involved in the decades long journey to LGBTQIA+ inclusion.
Engage with Documents from the Journey
Breaking the Silence
A study resource created by the PC(USA) Program Agency to combat homophobia.
Church & Society, Homophobia: The Overlooked Sin
Church & Society, Vol. 73, No. 2, November/December 1982. The theme, "Homophobia: The Overlooked Sin," is in response to the policy statement regarding homosexuality adopted at the 190th General Assembly of the UPCUSA in 1978.
Chicago Gay Pride Parade
Photographs of Presbyterians for Lesbian/Gay Concerns marching in the 1987 Chicago Pride Parade.
More Light Churches Network Pamphlet
1995 pamphlet promoting the inclusive network of congregations.
Covenant Network Press Release
1997 press release announcing the formation of the Covenant Network.
The Lazarus Project
Documents and video from the Presbyterian ministry dedicated to reconciling the church with its LGBTQIA+ community.
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.