Clergy Call Speakers on the Matthew Shepard Act and ENDA
As our political team works with Congress to help ensure that the Matthew Shepard Local Law Enforcement Hate Crimes Prevention Act and the Employment Non-Discrimination Act become law, we wanted you to have a chane to hear and read the stirring call to action of our 2009 Clergy Call for Justice and Equality speakers. On Sunday of each week, HRC's Backstory will post one of the powerful speeches given at the Clergy Call press conference this past May. These religious leaders, speaking from the core of their faith traditions, are some of the most inspiring advocates we know. 

In The News

The Association of Welcoming and Affirming Baptists Honors Rev. Stan Hastey
Rev. Stan Hastey has been selected as the 2009 recipient of the Randle R. Mixon Award for Christian Service. The award is presented by the Association of Welcoming and Affirming Baptists every two years to an individual who advances the cause of inclusion and affirmation of LGBT Baptists within the church and society as a whole. The award will be presented during the ABC Biennial meeting in Pasadena, Calif., June 26 to 28.  

Spiritual Reflections

Politics, Religion and Discourse: A Conversation about Same-Sex Marriage
Grace Cathedral in San Francisco, Calif., hosted "Politics, Religion and Discourse: A Conversation about Same-Sex Marriage" on Monday, June 22. This was a powerful conversation featuring renowned voices from the faith community, including HRC Religion Council member, the Rt. Rev. V. Gene Robinson. Speeches will be available soon online.

Resources

Rabbi Bradley Shavit Artson's Podcast on the Bible
Rabbi Bradley Shavit Artson, dean of the Ziegler School of Rabbinic Studies and vice president of American Jewish University, has recorded a podcast, "The Bible: Inclusion and Love," in which he discusses reclaiming the Bible for liberation. Access the podcast directly.

Out in the Shadows: A New Congregational Resource
Out of the Shadows, Into the Light: Christianity and Homosexuality (Chalice Press), edited by HRC's Religion Council member Rev. Dr. Miguel De La Torre, brings together a variety of voices to reveal how leading a congregation through discussions around sexuality and sexual orientation can help congregations work together toward better understanding and reconciliation. 

New Events in Our Communities

Soulforce Launches Sundays of Solidarity Program
Join Soulforce on June 28, the anniversary of Stonewall, to engage fundamentalist leader Rev. John Hagee and members of Cornerstore Church in conversations about faith, sexual orientation and gender identity. This event launches Soulforce's Sundays of Solidarity program that encourages groups of LGBT and allied people around the country to train themselves in nonviolent direct action and communication with congregations that are not welcoming of LGBT people. Visit Soulforce's website for more information.