Devout Christian Finds a Reason to Stand Up for Equality
By Yvonne
I was raised in a devout born-again Christian family. I was raised as a child to believe that homosexuality was evil and a perversion. When I was growing up, I used to wonder if any of the kids at my school could be gay. I couldn't imagine it could be so.
As it happens, there was a gay individual even closer than I imagined. My brother Tommy came out of the closet in the early 1990s. After he came out, I had to confront my own denial about the fact that, in my heart of hearts, I had always known that Tommy was gay. Over the years, his partner Rod has come to be a loved and cherished member of our family, and we have all had to confront the prejudices and stereotypes we have held onto for so long about sexual orientation.
It seems to me that coming out of the closet is the greatest weapon that gays and lesbians have. If my own brother had never come out, my family would never have been forced to confront the deep-seated prejudices we were raised with. I can't imagine how painful and difficult it must be to put yourself on the line this way, but know that you are not alone. I, for one, support you with all my heart.
I am still a Christian, but my husband (who also has a gay brother) and I attend a church that truly puts the teachings of Christ into practice — teachings about love, tolerance and inclusively. As a Christian who grew up with a gay family member, I know that the propaganda put forth by the religious right on this issue is founded in fear, hatred and prejudice. None of these are values taught by Jesus!
My husband and I joined HRC because we believe it's time for heterosexual Christians with gay and lesbian family and friends to stand up and make our voices heard in support of our brothers and sisters.
Dec. 1, 2004
