GLAAD - Religion, Faith & Values

Accomplishments

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GLAAD Religion, Faith & Values - Accomplishments

GLAAD Convenes Top Communications Staff From National LGBT Faith Groups

12/21/2009

GLAAD convened leaders of national LGBT faith groups to expand communication expertise among eighteen representatives from Lutherans Concerned, Unitarian Universalist United Nations Office, Nehirim (Jewish), Presbyterian Welcome, Integrity (Episcopalian), Reconciling Ministry Network (Methodist), and Affirmation (Mormon). Directors of communication and top staff from each organization met December 14-15 and gained skills on social media, messaging, media planning, and leveraging news media coverage. Many had not met each other previously and used the opportunity to network and share successes and challenges.

GLAAD’s high-level media training helps equip leaders in faith traditions that have supportive-LGBT policies, such as Jewish, Unitarian-Universalist, Lutheran and Episcopal traditions, to leverage support for equality in the larger society. Presbyterians gain traction as they stand on the brink of inclusive policies. United Methodists and Mormons use media tools to push entrenched traditions to live up to their own basic values of care for all people. As all LGBT faith groups communicate a media message of change, they support cultures and faith traditions across the world to embrace equality in both religion and society—regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.

Mobilizing Faith Leaders Around Uganda’s Anti-Gay Law

12/8/2009

GLAAD staff has been working behind the scenes to help faith leaders respond to the draconian anti-gay law being proposed in Uganda. The proposed law calls for the imprisonment of gay rights advocates, allows for execution of “repeat offenders” and Ugandans living in other countries could even be extradited if they are thought to be gay. GLAAD staff met with an emerging group of faith leaders to talk about the intersections of race, gender and orientation. National leaders from Howard University, Religious Coalition for Reproductive Choice, United Church of Christ, Arcus Foundation, Human Rights Campaign, NAACP, Progressive Faith Foundation, Faith Voices for the Common Good, Progressive Christians Uniting and others came together to provide faith messages of LGBT support.

In a separate meeting with Public Research Associates, GLAAD staff helped draft statements to encourage progressive faith leaders in the U.S. to challenge the proposed anti-gay law in Uganda. GLAAD’s network also helped garner additional signers. The statement will be released in the near future.

In addition, staff hosted a day of meetings with prominent, openly gay faith activist, Anthony Venn-Brown of Australia. Venn-Brown was recognized as one of the 25 most influential gay people in Australia and met with leaders in the Unitarian Universalist United Nations Office, The Center and the International Gay & Lesbian Human Rights Commission and senior GLAAD staff to discuss the impact of the international network of conservative anti-LGBT forces. The conversations led to strategies for mobilizing the network in the southern hemisphere and promoting LGBT-inclusive voices of faith.

Assisting First Openly Lesbian Minister Fighting to be Part of Presbyterian Church

11/18/2009

Lisa Larges was again approved for ordination by her regional Presbytery and, no sooner than approved, opponents collected 1/3 of the voting members to put a stay on the action until it can be appealed—again. She would become the first openly lesbian minister in the denomination. GLAAD staff on the east and west coasts assisted with media and spotlighting the discrimination that Larges faced as she navigates the Presbyterian Church (USA) process. GLAAD also worked with Larges in 2008 when first approved by her Presbytery and in a recent high-court appeal. The latest approval positions Larges, head of That All May Freely Serve, for the next national meeting of Presbyterian Church (USA) in July where they will again vote on full inclusion of gay and lesbian ministers and – with the unfair practice in headlines and being talked about around the nation – will likely become the next mainline denomination to approve inclusion of LGBT ministers and their stories.

MEDIA COVERAGE:
"S.F. Presbytery OKs ordination of lesbian”
San Francisco Chronicle – November 11, 2009

“Out lesbian wins ordination OK”
Bay Area Reporter – November 12, 2009

“A really good week for Lesbian Ministers”
Tips-Q GLBT News – November 12, 2009

Raising Attention for Mormon Organization’s Historic Trek

11/9/2009

Mormon allies garnered major regional media and raised attention for LGBT Mormons’ plea for reconciliation with GLAAD’s media assistance as the Foundation for Reconciliation implemented their historic November 4 trek to Mormon headquarters. In the wake of the loss of the loss of marriage equality in Maine and on the anniversary of Prop. 8, leaders of the foundation for Reconciliation trekked five miles with a symbolic handcart carrying letters and memorials from a famous Mormon monument called, “This is the Place” to the steps of Mormon headquarters.

GLAAD pitched the story to media who joined the march and at the steps of the LDS Church headquarters where the group was met by a staff member from the national Mormon offices. The representative received memorials for the LGBT Mormons who have committed suicide over rejection by church and family and white carnations, along with a petition with thousands of signatures, a letter of concern from Utah psychologists and counselors, and other symbols of the harm done by Mormon policies.

MEDIA COVERAGE:
“Gay-rights group pulls Mormon-style handcart to make point”
Salt Lake Tribune – November 4, 2009

“Gay advocates trek to LDS offices”
Deseret News – November 5, 2009

“Group delivers plea for reconciliation to LDS leaders regarding Mormon LGBT youth”
KSTU Fox 13 – November 4, 2009

“Gay Mormons deliver petitions to LDS Church in SLC by handcart’
Towleroad – November 4, 2009

LGBT-Inclusive Mormons Readies for Historic Event

11/2/2009

GLAAD staff continues to assist Mormon straight allies in the Foundation for Reconciliation as they prepare for their November 4 trek from a famous Mormon monument called, “This is the Place,” to Mormon headquarters. There, the group will present memorials to LGBT Mormons who have committed suicide over rejection by church and family. Leaders from the Foundation for Reconciliation sent a registered letter to invite Mormon leaders to be present to receive the offerings. In particular, the group requested that Elder Hafen, who recently told Evergreen “ex-gay” Mormons they would be straight in heaven, to be present to understand the harm of such words.

GLAAD trained spokespersons, Peter and Mary Danzig, were pressured out of both membership in the Mormon Church and the prestigious Mormon Tabernacle orchestra because of their support for LGBT equality. Peter continues to speak out in a time when Mormon funding for the National Organization for Marriage is coming to light in Maine. It is a moment when Mormon voices for equality are ever more important.

MEDIA COVERAGE:
“Group to deliver pro-gay petition to LDS Church by handcart”
KSL News Radio – October 29, 2009

GLAAD Preps United Methodist Transgender Minister for CBS Early Show

10/5/2009

The Reverend David Weekley, transgender United Methodist pastor for 27 years, continued to garner major media as CBS News reached out for an interview on The Early Show. GLAAD staff served as liaison between the CBS and Rev. Weekley and prepped him and his wife, Deborah, for this live national morning show interview. With almost three million viewers, Rev. Weekley and his wife shared with America that transgender people are in all walks of life. Their willingness to speak up helps open hearts and minds of people everywhere and builds support for LGBT equality.

MEDIA COVERAGE:
“Minister Reveals Transgender Secret”
The Early Show – CBS News – Oct 1, 2009

GLAAD Assists Catholic Faith Leaders Who Pray for Equality and Challenge Anti-Gay Officials

10/5/2009

GLAAD helped draft press materials and secure media coverage for faith advocates in California as they mobilized two events last week—praying the rosary outside area cathedrals while holding placards for equality—and a protest outside a convocation where anti-gay Catholic Bishop Cordileone spoke.

Catholics for Equality convened their first of five prayer sessions using the rosary to pray for equality. The first, on Saturday, October 3, was in front of the Diocese of Oakland Cathedral that Bishop Salvatore Cordileone oversees. The rest will be held on the first Saturday of the next four months, alternating between the Cathedrals in San Francisco and Oakland.

Conservative Catholic media picked up on the rosary prayers and the demonstration held on September 23 outside a convocation where Cordileone spoke. More than twenty advocates held signs for marriage equality and listened to speakers who challenged Bishop Cordileone’s role in raising massive Catholic donations to support Prop 8 and speaking out against LGBT equality. Protest speakers were respectful but called on church leaders to make a distinction between civil marriage and religious marriage.

Despite defamatory coverage from unofficial conservative Catholic media, Bishop Cordileone, in response to the demonstration, agreed to meet with the presidents’ council of the nine seminaries that make up the Graduate Theological Union of the bay area.

MEDIA COVERAGE:
“Pray for Marriage Equality”
QueerToday.com – September 30, 2009

GLAAD Media Trains Mormon Group as They Address Ban of Ad for Memorial

10/5/2009

GLAAD staff provided media training to Mormon leaders of the Foundation for Reconciliation last week as a follow up to meetings at the recent national conference of Affirmation Mormons. The Foundation is a new group of largely straight allies with deep roots in the Mormon tradition and their leaders are garnering increasing media coverage.

During the telephone training session, Foundation leaders shared that the Deseret News, owned by the Mormon Church, rejected their ad promoting the group’s October 4 memorial service for LGBT suicide victims. GLAAD staff noted that this looked like the Foundation’s next media opportunity. Prepped with talking points targeting the fair-minded audiences, the group reached out to a journalist from the Salt Lake Tribune, the largest newspaper in Utah, and the ban became the next headline. As Mormon officials continue to play roles in anti-marriage equality campaigns, Mormon voices for fairness grow in importance.

MEDIA COVERAGE:
“Deseret News pulls ad for gay suicide memorial”
The Salt Lake Tribune – October 1, 2009

“Church-owned Deseret News rejects ad for LGBT memorial event”
KCPW – October 2, 2009

“Group plans LDS conference weekend memorial to gay suicides”
The Salt Lake Tribune – September 30, 2009

“LDS Church prefers you not honor the Mormons who killed themselves”
Queerty – October 1, 2009

GLAAD Follows Up with Pro-LGBT Mormons to Respond to “Ex-Gay” Falsehoods

9/29/2009

When Affirmation Gay and Lesbian Mormons held their 30th anniversary meeting in Salt Lake City last weekend, they were prepared to respond to Evergreen, a so-called “ex-gay” group of Mormons who were meeting at the same time in Salt Lake City. Elder Hafen of Evergreen garnered a headline stating that being gay is “not in your DNA” based on a speech full of falsehoods that was posted both on Evergreen and the LDS official web site.

GLAAD consulted with Affirmation leaders, as well as leaders from the recently formed, Foundation for Reconciliation, as they responded to the defamatory speech. Both organizations addressed the inaccuracies extensively in the Salt Lake Tribune which has a circulation of more than 125,000.

MEDIA COVERAGE:
“Is LDS Church taking a step back on gay issues?”
The Salt Lake Tribune – September 26, 2009

“Homosexuality ‘not in your DNA,’ says LDS leader”
The Salt Lake Tribune – September 19, 2009

“LDS Certitude: “Homosexuality not in your DNA”
Tips-Q – September 20, 2009

“Elder Bruce C. Haven speaks on same-sex attraction” (full text of speech)
LDS Newsroom

GLAAD works with Affirmation Mormons on Media at National Convention

9/21/2009

The council of Affirmation Gay and Lesbian Mormons convened some 200 members from across the country in Salt Lake City on September 18-20. GLAAD staff provided media training to council and chapter leaders as they prepared for a sensitive press conference. Pro-LGBT Morman groups are advocating Utah government officials and Mormon Church leaders to support pro-LGBT legislation and families with LGBT members. GLAAD helped with press materials, talking points, sharing the story with media and preparations for television interviews. With coverage by the Salt Lake City Tribune, the Deseret News and local FOX TV, hundreds of thousands of Utah residents are now hearing from gay and allied Mormons about the harm caused by LGBT discrimination.

Affirmation’s media engagement helps paves the way for two separate early October meetings with Utah Governor Gary Herbert. One is with the Foundation for Reconciliation and the other is with leaders of Equality Utah. Both meetings were precipitated by previous media work by the Foundation for Reconciliation as assisted by GLAAD on their first ever press release in response to the Governor’s disparagement of legal protections for LGBT people.

While in Utah, GLAAD staff also had the opportunity to meet with leaders from Equality Utah, the LGBT Center, LDS Apology and the Foundation for Reconciliation as they worked to coordinate the growing number of LGBT advocacy efforts.

MEDIA COVERAGE:
“Mormons urged to stop shunning gay family members”
Salt Lake Tribune – September 19, 2008

“Gay Mormons debate at SLC conference”
Fox News KSTU 13 – September 19, 2008

“Gay, ex-Mormon group starts site”
Deseret News – September 19, 2008

GLAAD Assists United Methodists as Transgender Minister Shares His Story

9/8/2009

When United Methodist pastor Reverend David Weekley was preparing to come out as a transgender man after transitioning over 30 years ago, Chris Paige, founder of the Transgender Religious Leaders Network, recognized this important media moment and reached out to GLAAD’s religion, faith and values staff to provide additional media expertise.

A pastor for 27 years, Weekley leads Epworth United Methodist Church, a Japanese American congregation, in Portland, Oregon. After being nominated for an award for his groundbreaking column as an unnamed transgender pastor, he decided it was time to tell his story through a sermon on August 30.

GLAAD staff was able to work with United Methodist officials of the Oregon-Idaho Annual Conference—the church body with jurisdiction—on terminology, media materials and media management tips. United Methodist district superintendent, Rev. Bonnie Parr Philipson and communications director, Greg Nelson were present at the service and Bishop Robert T. Hoshibata sent a public statement in full support of Rev. Weekley’s ministry. Leading up to the service, Rev. GLAAD’s spokesperson training and talking points helped Weekley and leaders in the congregation to speak to the media with confidence resulting in coverage by the two largest print outlets in Portland.

Rev. Weekley is the second transgender United Methodist Pastor GLAAD has assisted with media management. The Rev. Drew Phoenix transitioned while serving his congregation in Baltimore, Maryland and his story also garnered major media. Rev. Phoenix was challenged by conservatives but the high court of the church threw it out since there are no prohibitions in the United Methodist Church against transgender ministers.

MEDIA COVERAGE:
“Methodist minister confides to congregation that he is a transgender man”
The Oregonian – August 31, 2009

“Congregation embraces Transgender minister as his secret is revealed”
The Portland Tribune – August 31, 2009

GLAAD Helps Dignity Catholics With Op-Ed Placed in Huffington Post

9/8/2009

When Senator Ted Kennedy passed away, leaders of Dignity, the largest LGBT Catholic organization in the United States, reached out to GLAAD staff for input on a press release. Despite a flood of media on Kennedy’s death, GLAAD staff recognized that was a this unique angle on the story and worked with Marianne Duddy-Burke, the national executive director of Dignity, to expand the media release into a heart-felt op-ed on the meaning of the end of this era for LGBT Catholics. With GLAAD’s assistance, it was placed on the Huffington Post, the most prominent progressive online outlet in the country whose progressive readers may not remember that the vast majority of grassroots Catholics support LGBT equality—foremost among them was Senator Ted Kennedy.

MEDIA COVERAGE:
“Senator Ted Kennedy’s leadership on LGBT issues: A model for progressives”
Huffington Post – August 31, 2009

GLAAD Helps LGBT Lutherans Garner Waves of Media During Historic Inclusive Votes

8/24/2009

GLAAD staff was on site helping to generate local and national media attention as Lutherans endured a tornado and anti-LGBT tirades before voting to lift the ban on ministers in same-gender, committed relationships.

Journalists went on alert when GLAAD distributed news to 1,800 religion outlets through the Religion News Service just days before the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), began its August 17-23 meeting. With early coverage in USA Today, NPR and the Los Angeles Times, media was primed to cover the three critical votes including to vote to allow clergy to have same-gender partners.

The ELCA is the second largest mainline Protestant church in the U.S. with 4.6 million members. Today there is a new Protestant movement for inclusion of all families as the ELCA joins the Episcopal Church and the United Church of Christ as mainline denominations supporting inclusion.

GLAAD worked very closely with the communications director of the LGBT coalition, Goodsoil, to develop media strategy, train spokespeople, draft media releases and manage press conferences. With almost ten separate AP articles, dozens of original stories in major media such as the New York Times, Philadelphia Inquirer, Washington Post, LA Times, PBS Religion & Ethics, Minnesota Public Radio, and local radio talk shows, millions of people across the country and the world learned about the Lutherans’ historic steps toward equality.

MEDIA COVERAGE:
“Lutheran gay clergy proposal passes first hurdle”
The Associated Press – August 17, 2009

“Lutherans to vote on celibacy issues for gay, lesbian clergy”
CNN – August 18, 2009

“Evangelical Lutherans to vote on sexually active gay clergy”
Washington Post – August 18, 2009

“Early victory for gay clergy at ELCA assembly”
Minneapolis Star-Tribune – August 18, 2009

“Lutherans move toward more open view on gays”
The Associated Press – August 19, 2009

“Lutherans lift barrier on gay clergy”
Los Angeles Times – August 21, 2009

“Lutheran group eases limits on gay clergy”
New York Times – August 21, 2009

“Congregations deal weigh gay ruling by Evangelical Lutheran Church in America…”
Chicago Tribune – August 24, 2009

GLAAD Trained LGBT Lutheran Spokespersons in USA Today and NPR

8/19/2009

Lutheran LGBT advocates kicked off a week of national legislative action with interviews in USA Today and on National Public Radio as the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) is poised to allow local congregations to decide whether or not to call clergy who are in partnered, same-gender relationships.

GLAAD staff worked closely with leaders from Lutherans Concerned and the Goodsoil coalition of several LGBT Lutheran advocacy groups leading up to their August 17-23 churchwide assembly, where all national policy is set. With multiple media strategy meetings, two late-night media training sessions for spokespeople, a telephone briefing session for journalists and a media release to 1,800 religion and journalist contacts through Religious News Service wire, advocates are shaping the media message that change is coming.

Barbara Brown Hagerty, NPR’s religion reporter closed her report saying, “…even conservatives believe that change is inevitable — if not this year, then at the next assembly in 2011.”

GLAAD’s support of the Goodsoil media efforts helped to lay the groundwork for the ELCA, the second largest mainline denomination with 4.6 million members, for policy change. Currently, the denomination allows clergy to serve regardless of orientation or gender identity, as long as they are celibate.

MEDIA COVERAGE:
“Lutherans prepare to debate gay clergy”
USA Today – August 10, 2009
http://www.usatoday.com/news/religion/2009-08-10-lutheran-gay_N.htm

“Lutherans prep for vote on gay clergy”
National Public Radio – August 17, 2009
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=111910440

Couples Reach Out to GLAAD to Tell Their Stories Through the Media

8/10/2009

When organizers of the Marriage Trail Campaign were helping two long-time couples, travel to Connecticut from New York City to be married by Stamford, Conn., Mayor, Dannel Malloy, they reached out to the GLAAD religion faith and values staff to help with a media advisory and pitching to Connecticut media.

Charles Drzal and Peter Ortiz were married by Malloy and then Scott Lucas and Robert Lubell tied the knot with Malloy officiating. Lucas and Lubell were married after 35 years of being partners and Drzaol and Ortiz have been together for 21 years. With the poignancy of long lives and the challenges of aging and illness, the two couples could not wait for New York to pass marriage equality. Lucas, a WWII vet, suffers from Parkinson’s disease. Ortiz, who is living with cancer and AIDS, broke down in tears after the weddings and said, "I can die happy."

Marriage Trail Campaign is a group that helps couples travel to states where marriage for gay couples is legal to get married.

MEDIA COVERAGE:
The Stamford Times – August 5, 2009
“Malloy officiates over two same-sex weddings”
http://thestamfordtimes.com/story/473094

GLAAD Assists Researcher in Nebraska on Column from Faith Perspective

7/27/2009

After the Iowa decision for marriage equality, GLAAD staff provided media consultation for faith leaders across the river in Lincoln and Omaha, Nebraska, as they interpreted the decision in Iowa and worked as advocates for equality in their communities.

In response to that consultation, Lisa Pytlikzillig, psychology researcher at the University of Nebraska and LGBT advocate for equality, reached out to GLAAD for feedback on the next edition of her column, a reflection on her own change in opinion through her faith journey.

Her column, published in the Lincoln Star-Journal introduced more than 75,000 households to a voice of faith supportive of marriage equality. Pytlikzillig and the Rev. Stephen Griffith of St. Paul United Methodist Church are laying the groundwork for an ongoing educational effort using personal outreach and media engagement.

MEDIA COVERAGE:
“Community Columnist: Following God’s will in stand on GLBT rights”
Lincoln Star-Journal - July 24, 2009
http://journalstar.com/news/opinion/editorial/article_4b33f268-7814-11
de-9a6f-001cc4c03286.html

STAFF CONTACT:
Ann Craig, Director of Religion, Faith & Values, (646) 871-8020, craig@glaad.org

GLAAD Assists with Media in Episcopal Church Equality Stories

7/20/2009

The Episcopal Church began a new chapter of equality on July 15 as its delegates and bishops voted overwhelmingly to open the door to ordination for LGBT people.

GLAAD staff worked with The Episcopal Church’s LGBT Integrity group leading up to the convention to provide up-to-date information to religion journalists. Rev. Susan Russell, president of Integrity USA and a GLAAD trained media spokesperson, discussed the momentous decision and LGBT inclusive faith with several media outlets. Additionally, The Desert Sun quoted the Reverend Kevin Johnson, GLAAD trained spokesperson and president of the national LGBT Methodist group, Church Within a Church, who spoke to the dramatic shift in the Episcopal Church and to the continuing need to heal the wounds of exclusion.

GLAAD staff also highlighted Integrity’s expansive on-line new-media work through glaadblog.org and Twitter.com/glaad.

RELATED LINKS:
“The Episcopal Church Says “YES” to Ordination for Gays”
glaadBLOG - July 18, 2009
http://glaadblog.org/category/religion-faith-values/

MEDIA COVERAGE:
“Episcopals Opening Fold to Gay Clergy”
The Desert Sun – July 17, 2009
http://www.mydesert.com/article/20090717/NEWS01/907170309/
1006/news01

“Episcopal Church moves to accept more gays and lesbians”
CNN.com – July 18, 2009
http://www.cnn.com/2009/US/07/14/episcopal.gays/

“Will Episcopal Church move draw in or drive out believers?”
USA Today – July 18, 2009
http://content.usatoday.com/communities/religion/post/
2009/07/68494351/1

STAFF CONTACT:
Ann Craig, Director of Religion, Faith & Values, (646) 871-8020, craig@glaad.org

GLAAD Pitches Story of Gay Couple in Utah Story to Mainstream Media

7/20/2009

When 25-year-old Derek Jones blogged about harassment he faced along with his boyfriend Matt Aune for kissing on the Mormon Church-owned Main Street Plaza in Salt Lake City, GLAAD reached out to the couple. In addition to supporting the couple in telling their story, GLAAD pitched the blog posting as a potential story to both The Salt Lake Tribune and the Associated Press. Local leaders in Salt Lake City have staged two “kiss-in” demonstrations to support the couple since the incident. The events have gained widespread media attention after those initial reports.

MEDIA COVERAGE:

“Trespassing case? Gay couple detained after kiss near LDS temple”

The Salt Lake Tribune – July 11, 2009

http://www.sltrib.com/justice/ci_12811907

RELATED LINK:

“Gay Couple Detained for Kissing”

glaadBLOG - July 15, 2009

http://glaadblog.org/2009/07/15/gay-couple-detained-for-kissing/

STAFF CONTACT:

Adam Bass, Senior Media Strategist, (323) 634-2018, bass@glaad.org

GLAAD Trained Straight-Ally Pastor Challenges Anti-Gay Oklahoma Legislator

7/13/2009

Oklahoma State Representative, Sally Kern, launched yet another attack on LGBT people, with her “Oklahoma Citizens Proclamation for Morality.” Kern’s condemned LGBT people and blames the country’s economic woes in large part on acceptance of same-sex marriage. Rev. Loyce Newton-Edwards spoke out strongly and as an African-American minister in Oklahoma and straight ally, challenged Kern’s remarks and raised awareness for the growing support for LGBT people.

MEDIA COVERAGE:

“State Lawmakers urge an end to nation’s ‘moral crisis’”

News on 6 – July 3, 2009

http://www.newson6.com/Global/story.asp?S=10634878

“Kern blames it on the gays”

Dallas Voice
http://www.dallasvoice.com/artman/publish/article_11550.php

STAFF CONTACT:
Ann Craig, Director of Religion, Faith & Values, (646) 871-8020, craig@glaad.org

GLAAD Preps and Pitches “Refuse to Sign” Clergy

7/13/2009

GLAAD staff was consulted earlier this year because a growing number of clergy from several denominations were joining a movement to “refuse to sign” wedding licenses—and some were refusing to do any weddings until marriage equality became a reality in their state. This issue was highlighted in the California Proposition 8 campaign as religious marriage and civil marriage were often conflated.

The United Church of Christ executive for LGBT ministries, Mike Schuenemeyer, convened the meeting to explore media strategies which would help educate the public to distinguish between civil marriage and religious marriage. The goal was to draw media attention to the increasing numbers of ministers who “refuse to sign” and show the need for religious freedom for everyone—including those traditions that marry couples who are gay or lesbian.

That work came to fruition this week as Salon.com journalist, Lilly Fowler, called GLAAD to access sources to discuss the “refuse to sign” campaign. With GLAAD’s help, Salon.com published a ground-breaking article that paves the way for increasing understanding of the concerns that arise as ministers say, “by the power vested in me by the state….” during a wedding ceremony.

MEDIA COVERAGE:

“Churches Quite Marriage”

Salon.com - July 10, 2009

http://www.salon.com/news/feature/2009/07/10/churches_quit_marriage/

STAFF CONTACT:

Ann Craig, Director of Religion, Faith & Values, (646) 871-8020, craig@glaad.org

GLAAD Honored by Dignity USA

7/7/2009

Glaad received Dignity President’s Award at LGBT-inclusive faith group Dignity USA’s 40th anniversary gathering in San Francisco. Dignity USA works for respect and justice for all LGBT persons in the Catholic Church.The award recognized GLAAD's media work with Dignity leaders and the combined efforts to address anti-gay pronouncements from the Roman Catholic hierarchy in the media.

Dignity leaders thanked GLAAD for repeated assistance in drafting communications materials and conducting media outreach to address homophobic statements and policies in the Roman Catholic Church, including garnering media attention across the globe after the Vatican came out against decriminalization of gay people in all countries.

During the convention GLAAD also provided media training for participants and members of national Catholic groups.

STAFF CONTACT:

Ann Craig, Director of Religion, Faith & Values, (646) 871-8020, craig@glaad.org

GLAAD Trains Young Mennonites in Campaign for LGBT Inclusion

7/7/2009

Mennonite LGBT and allied leaders made history with the help of GLAAD as they garnered national attention for their "Pink Menno" campaign. LGBT and allied Mennonites all wore pink at their national legislative meeting in Columbus, Ohio, on July 2 in support of LGBT inclusion.

Although the denomination is known for its commitment to peace and non-violence, it does not recognize openly gay people as official members and has stripped congregations of their voting rights for welcoming LGBT people of faith.

GLAAD staff trained spokespersons, helped leaders with press materials, guided them on planning their press event and pitched the story to media. Bolstered by GLAAD training, more than 100 people rallied in front of the Columbus convention center wearing pink and carrying bright pink signs for equality.

The story was published by the AP and Columbus Dispatch which was then picked up by more than a hundred newspaper and television outlets throughout the country including the Washington Post and Forbes.

MEDIA COVERAGE:
“Mennonites protest church exclusion of gays”
The Associated Press – July 2, 2009
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/07/
02/AR2009070202646.html

“Mennonite group pushes for accepting gays”
The Columbus Dispatch – July 2, 2009
http://www.columbusdispatch.com/live/content/local_news/
stories/2009/07/02/mennonite_rights.html?sid=101

STAFF CONTACT:
Ann Craig, Director of Religion, Faith & Values, (646) 871-8020, craig@glaad.org

GLAAD Trained Faith Leader Responds to Exorcism of Gay Teen

6/29/2009

When a startling video of a twenty-minute “exorcism” of a gay teen zoomed through the internet, GLAAD was contacted by journalists from The Associated Press and Reuters for spokespersons who could comment. GLAAD pitched United Church of Christ (UCC) pastor and organizer for the Center for Gay and Lesbian Studies, the Rev. Dr. Roland Stringfellow, who was recently part of a GLAAD media training for the national board of directors of the UCC Coalition for LGBT Concerns.

Dr. Stringfellow effectively shared his story of going through two exorcisms when he was struggling with being a gay, Christian African American young man. His message that this church was not casting out a demon but “casting shame” was read in international papers from as far away as India. Across the United States and the world, young people surviving in traditions that still consider being gay a form of demon possession, and letting church leaders now know that such spiritual harm to gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people will be challenged.

MEDIA COVERAGE:
The Associated Press – June 26, 2009
“Conn. Church creates stir with gay exorcism video”

http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5gwceoRa76
wAmeJzDIIvb3qb4raYgD9916IP00

Reuters (including pick-up by Reuters India) – June 23, 2009
“Pastor defends video of exorcism of gay man”

http://in.reuters.com/article/lifestyleMolt/idINTRE55P57N20090626

GLAAD Faith Leaders in Two “Next Fall” Talkback Sessions

6/29/2009

A team effort between GLAAD directors and staff resulted in two talkback sessions for the acclaimed “Next Fall,” a Naked Angels theater company production at Horizons Playhouse in New York City. The play about a loving gay couple—one an atheist and one an evangelical Christian—was a wonderful foil for talkback with LGBT faith leaders and the audiences.

The June 17 talkback included the Rev. Mieke Vandersall, national director of Presbyterian Welcome, Rev. Manny Santiago, national board member of the Association of Welcoming and Affirming Baptists and Dr. Dorothee Benz, head of New York “Methodists In a New Direction.”

GLAAD trained straight ally, Jay Bakker, provided the June 24 talkback. Jay is the punk evangelist son of the late Tammy Faye, who became an LGBT icon after Rue Paul’s poignant documentary, “Tammy Faye’s Eyes.” Jay picked up her message of God’s love for everyone.

MEDIA COVERAGE:
Theater News on Theater Mania – June 16, 2009
“Next Fall announces post-performance talkback series”

The New York Times – June 4, 2009
“Love with a proper Christian, at Playwrights Horizons”

GLAAD Works with Denominational Leaders on Media Strategies

6/22/2009

GLAAD Works with Denominational Leaders on Media Strategies GLAAD staff met with national executives from the United Church of Christ (UCC) Unitarian Universalist (UU) churches to explore media possibilities around ecumenical campaigns on United Nations work to decriminalize gay and transgender people internationally, and US based safe schools diversity curriculum which includes information about LGBT people.

Underscoring the need, a UCC minister became the target of an attack backed by the Pacific Justice Institute aimed at eliminating diversity education in Castro Valley, California. GLAAD staff was consulted by California Faith for Equality and GLAAD provided media training for key leaders in local churches who will be part of a telephone press conference on June 26 before a vote on a resolution to support diversity training in schools.

As conservative lawyers increasingly use rhetoric about “protecting children” and “religious freedom,” GLAAD is working to raise visibility of LGBT-inclusive faith voices.

MEDIA COVERAGE:
“Settlement near in dispute over lesbian’s talk”
Inside Bay Area – June 6, 2009

“Castro Valley schools sued over gay pastor talk”
The Associated Press – May 15, 2009

“Lesbian pastor’s talk at school prompts lawsuit from Castro Valley High parents”
Inside Bay Area – May 15, 2009

“Anonymous e-mail blasts Castro Valley High School diversity day speaker”
Inside Bay Area – March 17, 2009

GLAAD Works with Director of Religion at National Black Justice Coalition on Op-Eds

6/8/2009

GLAAD engaged in important collaborations with the National Black Justice Coalition’s (NBJC) to publish op-eds on civil rights belonging to all citizens. This counters a primary right wing strategy of stereotyping African Americans as anti-gay and LGBT advocates as whites who want to trespass on Dr. Martin Luther King’s and all African American’s movement for civil rights.

GLAAD staff provided editing for Dr. Sylvia Rhue’s commentary published in a Pam Spaulding op-ed in the Huffington Post. Dr. Sylvia Rhue, recent director of religious affairs and current interim executive director of NBJC, continued to lay out cogent arguments around civil rights for all in a GLAAD edited and pitched op-ed in The Buffalo News as a few Black ministers are trying to position themselves as the spokespersons against marriage equality in New York.

MEDIA COVERAGE:
“Civil rights belong to every citizen, gays included”
The Buffalo News – June 5, 2009
http://www.buffalonews.com/149/story/693398.html

"Black, Gay and Reclaiming ‘Civil Rights’”
Huffington Post – May 27, 2009
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/pam-spaulding/black-gay-and-reclaiming_
b_208013.html

GLAAD Helps Transgender Faith Leaders Amplify Latino Support for Hate Crime Legislation

6/8/2009

GLAAD worked closely with Lutherans Concerned/North America (LC) in reaching out to the Latino community and building support and awareness for LGBT-inclusive federal hate crime legislation. GLAAD edited and translated an op-ed by Nicole Garcia, transgender representative of LC, that discussed the Angie Zapata murder trial and the need to pass the Matthew Shepard Act.

The article urged readers to contact their state representatives to voice support for the Local Law Enforcement Hate Crimes Prevention Act. GLAAD secured placement for the op-ed in Ambiente Magazine, a bilingual Hispanic gay publication which is produced bi-monthly and distributed electronically to thousands of readers throughout the U.S, the Caribbean, and Central and South America.

MEDIA COVERAGE:

“Del miedo a la esperanza”
Ambiente Magazine – June 2009
http://www.ambiente.us/06009OPEdAngie.html

GLAAD Provides Updating to Memphis for Employment Non-Discrimination

6/8/2009

GLAAD’s work with Memphis LGBT leaders over recent years was in evidence this week as local leaders mobilized to pass a county non-discrimination ordinance. Tennessee Equality leaders were equipped with GLAAD media essentials when they challenged local coverage using terms like “homosexual” and “preference.” They received an apology and the online posting was changed.

When anti-gay activists began framing issues in the media, LGBT advocates had prominent faith leaders on board and asked GLAAD staff to media train the LGBT faith leaders and collaborate on media talking points. With a church backdrop, diverse participation and prominent Jewish and Christian spokespeople, Memphis leaders made it clear that, in a state where hate crime statistics top the nation, employment non-discrimination is essential.

MEDIA COVERAGE:
“Non-discrimination support rally draws over 500 people”
Memphis Flyer –May 31, 2009
http://www.memphisflyer.com/MemphisGaydar/archives/2009/05/ 31/non-discrimination-support-rally-draws-over-500-people

“Supporters come out for Shelby County gay rights”
Commercial Appeal –May 31, 2009
http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2009/may/31/supporters-come- out-support-gay-rights-ordinance/

“Memphis pastors ‘Say No’ to pro gay ordinance”
ABC Eye Witness News –May 31, 2009
http://www.myeyewitnessnews.com/news/local/story/Memphis-Pastors -Say-No-To-Pro-Gay-Ordinance/GzzXyWc0k0C94LQO8HmIUA.cspx

GLAAD Helps Methodist Pastor Prep for Press Coverage on “Why Gay is OK” Sermon

6/1/2009

When Rev. Diana Holbert announced that she was going to do a Pentecost sermon on “Why Gay is OK,” the media was interested. As a minister in a the United Methodist Church, and a friend of GLAAD through former staff member, Sarah Holbert, Rev. Holbert reached out to GLAAD for assistance in the logistics of dealing with media in a church service context and how to prep her congregation and let them know what is expected of them.

Through GLAAD’s assistance in spokesperson training, talking point development and press conference staging, Rev. Holbert gained confidence in relating to journalists effectively and helping her congregation to direct media inquiries.

Speaking out in a denomination that still discriminates against LGBT people has risks and it got a reaction from the presiding United Methodist Bishop. GLAAD’s messaging assistance helped support Rev. Holbert as she announced equality in the denomination and helped all of Dallas get to know a LGBT-inclusive voice of faith.

MEDIA COVERAGE:
“East Dallas Methodist pastor counters First Baptist sermon with ‘Why Gay Is OK’”
Dallas Morning News – May 18, 2009
http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/news/localnews/
stories/DN-churchgay_18met.ART0.State.Edition2.4c55841.html

“Brace UMC: A church with a different message for gay”
Dallas Voice – April 23, 2009
http://www.dallasvoice.com/artman/publish/article_11137.php

GLAAD Staff Trains Faith Leaders in Cleveland as they Celebrate Domestic Partner Registry

5/12/2009

GLAAD staff was called in by the United Church of Christ national executive for LGBT concerns to provide last minute media trainings for faith leaders in Cleveland, including the dean of the Episcopal cathedral, as they moved into the celebration of Cleveland’s first day of registering domestic partnerships. With the issues being increasingly framed by conservatives as Black clergy against LGBT advocates, faith leaders were well prepared to stay on their talking points of celebrating this important day for partners who want to care for each other and be a part of making Cleveland a great place to live for everyone. As efforts continue to rescind the registry, faith leaders will be instrumental in reframing the issues.

MEDIA COVERAGE:
“Cleveland’s domestic partnership registry a powerful symbol”
Cleveland Plain Dealer– May 7 , 2009
http://www.cleveland.com/brett/blog/index.ssf/2009/05/clevelands_ domestic _partner_re.html

“Registry vote may not happen this year”
Gay People’s Chronicle –May 8, 2009
http://www.gaypeopleschronicle.com/stories09/may/0508091.htm

GLAAD Staff Attend Conference with Clergy Lobbying for Inclusive Bills in U.S. Congress

5/12/2009

GLAAD staff was among the bishops, clergy and faith leaders from Christian, Jewish, Buddhist, Muslim and other traditions who gathered May 4-5 in Washington D.C. for a range of presentations and training sessions to prepare the group to lobby their congressional members to support bills related to hate crimes and employment non-discrimination. LGBT faith leaders were all represented among the racially diverse Clergy Call for Justice and Equality, sponsored by the Human Rights Campaign. The event was keynoted by dignitaries such as Bishop Gene Robinson, who recently received the Stephen F. Kolzak Award at the 20th Annual GLAAD Media Awards, as well as Joshua Dubois and Paul Monteiro, representatives from the Obama administration who deal with religious concerns with the theme of "Moving from Acceptance to Advocacy.”

MEDIA COVERAGE:

“Clergy to lobby on hill for gay rights”
The Washington Times– May 5, 2009
http://washingtontimes.com/news/2009/may/05/clergy-to-lobby-on-hill-for
-gay-rights/<http://washingtontimes.com/news/2009/may/05/clergy-to-
lobby-on-hill-for-gay-rights/>

“Gay-rights groups employ faith to push bills”
Washington Post – ‘OnFaith’ – May 5, 2009
http://newsweek.washingtonpost.com/onfaith/godingovernment/2009/05/
gay-rights_groups_employ_faith_to_push_bills.html

GLAAD Provides Media Relations Support to Transgender Faith Leaders as they Lobby in DC

5/5/2009

A new coalition of transgender faith leaders headed for Washington, D.C. to lobby for LGBT inclusive hate crimes legislation and reached out to GLAAD to help with a media advisory, media release and garnering press coverage. The coalition presented a letter to legislators with 50 signatures highlighting the recent murder of Angie Zapata as one more example of the dangers of hate violence and the need for national legislative action. For some legislators, it was the first time to meet with a faith leader who is an openly transgender person. Media coverage in The San Francisco Bay Times and in blogs, provided new opportunities to understand the diversity of our community and highlight inclusive faith voices.

MEDIA COVERAGE:
“Transgender Faith Leaders Lobbied for Hate Crimes Bill”
San Francisco Bay Times – April 30, 2009
http://www.sfbaytimes.com/?sec=article&article_id=10571

“Transgender Faith Leaders Lobbied for Hate Crimes Bill”
Planet Transgender – April 30, 2009
http://planetransgender.blogspot.com/2009/04/transgender-faith-l eaders-lobby-for.html

Trans Pastors Speak Out Against Hate Crimes”
TransScript – April 30, 2009
http://queerbiblestudy.blogspot.com/2009/04/trans-pastors-speak-out- against-hate.html

GLAAD Helps Methodists with Media for African American Bishop and LGBT Advocate

5/5/2009

When Cambridge Welcoming Ministries hosted Bishop Mel Talbert and two other United Methodist leaders with national standing to speak in support of LGBT equality, they called GLAAD for assistance with elevating these LGBT-inclusive faith voices in the media. GLAAD staff collaborated with the organization on their press advisory and pitched the story to regional media which garnered coverage in Bay Windows, the largest LGBT media in New England. As an African American, and veteran of civil rights work, Bishop Talbert’s voice has great clout in New England in the struggle for equality.

MEDIA COVERAGE:
“Cambridge Welcoming Ministries honors a ‘Reconciling Saint’”
Bay Windows – April 15, 2009
http://www.baywindows.com/index.php?ch=news&sc=glbt&sc2= news&sc3=&id=89686

GLAAD Provides Media Training to Advocates in Oklahoma and Nebraska

4/28/2009

GLAAD provided media training for Oklahoma leaders getting ready to launch the first Pride event in Enid, Oklahoma, while local leaders begin to expand program and staff.

In Nebraska, GLAAD met with LGBT-inclusive faith leaders who are already in the media with messages supporting marriage equality while marriage for gay couples became a reality in neighboring Iowa. Leaders from several grassroots and faith organizations came together to expand their media skills and to identify media opportunities.

MEDIA COVERAGE:
“Midlands Voices: Weigh options on gay marriage”
Omaha World Herald – April 10, 2009
http://www.omaha.com/index.php?u_page=3952&u_sid=10607241

GLAAD Works with Four Presbyterian Groups to Issue Joint Press Release

4/28/2009

GLAAD worked closely with four LGBT-inclusive Presbyterian groups through seven months of voting by 173 presbyteries (regional groups) on an amendment to the Constitution of the Presbyterian Church USA that would have allowed partnered gay clergy.

In early voting, unexpected presbyteries began to vote for equality and GLAAD helped advocates draft a widely circulated press release with messaging to raise awareness for the trend in an attempt to build support from other presbyteries. Media picked up the message of change as twenty-eight presbyteries switched their vote from previous efforts to change the rules on gay clergy.

Despite these shifts, the loss became imminent and GLAAD worked with the four groups to craft a joint press release highlighting the growing support and “closer vote.” The Associated Press picked up the message and it was published by Forbes.com, LA Times, Plain Dealer, Denver Post—some of over 100 outlets nationwide.

MEDIA COVERAGE:
“Presbyterians reject gay clergy, but vote closer”
The Associated Press – April 25, 2009
http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5hHNuny14B6cKR F1SN3Muce B6GVOQD97PQ80G5

“Gay clergy on the plate for Presbyterians”
Digital Journal – February 2, 2009
http://www.digitaljournal.com/article/266403

GLAAD Helps LGBT Catholics in Response to New Archbishop

4/24/2009

When one of the first public statements from the archbishop of New York was against marriage of same-sex couples, GLAAD reached out to leaders of Dignity New York and DignityUSA to quickly put together a press statement and pitch it to regional media. As New York Governor Patterson pushes forth legislation in support of same-sex marriage and, as Pride in the Pulpit faith leaders from throughout New York convene in the state capital at the end of April, Catholic voices are now on record for LGBT equality.

MEDIA COVERAGE:
“New NY Archbishop Will Fight Same-Sex Marriage”
Gay City News– April 16,2009
http://gaycitynews.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=20299745& BRD=2729&PAG=461&dept_id=568857&rfi=6

“Just Heavenly”
New York Post – April 15, 2009
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r_0OxgaEbAo

“New Yorkers Look to Archbishop Dolan for Hope, Tolerance
AM New York– April 13, 2009
http://weblogs.amny.com/entertainment/urbanite/blog/2009/04 /new_yorkers_look_to_dolan_for.html

GLAAD Meets With United Methodist Leaders from New Jersey

4/13/2009

GLAAD met with United Methodist and area LGBT leaders from Ocean Grove, NJ, to begin planning for the next steps toward equality at the Ocean Grove Camp Meeting—an historic chartered community with Methodist roots within the town of Neptune, NJ.

In late 2008, Ocean Grove United, an LGBT advocacy group, learned that two women who were denied use of the camp meeting’s open air pavilion on the boardwalk for their civil union ceremony won their law suit against the camp meeting board. The punishment is pending, but the Ocean Grove case is now a primary talking point for the anti-marriage forces as an example of religions being forced to perform weddings for gay and lesbian couples, as portrayed in the recent ad by the anti-gay National Organization for Marriage. This is despite the fact that the pavilion was often rented by diverse secular and religious groups.

The GLAAD meeting with New Jersey leaders resulted in plans for conversations with top New Jersey United Methodists, as well as media training for state level leaders who support marriage equality.

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