Florida Reverends, Rabbi Slam DeSantis, Anti-LGBTQ+ Laws

As we celebrate and recognize our LGBTQ+ families, friends, and neighbors this month during Pride, we must also advocate and join in the fight against unjust laws in our state of Florida and across the country.

As Florida clergy who identify as LGBTQ+ and LGBTQ+ allies, it is our moral duty to be in solidarity with lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and queer/questioning people and express our unwavering support for their rights and dignity. Unfortunately, the legislation we see in Florida that is promoted and signed by Governor Ron DeSantis seeks to roll back hard-won protections and discriminates against the LGBTQ+ community in our state. It is an alarming step backward in the journey towards equality and social progress.

During this month of Pride, we have already seen Florida LGBTQ+ organizers have to change or cancel their events for fear of legal consequences because of Gov. DeSantis’s legislation. And just last month, he signed a wave of anti-LGBTQ+ bills that attack even more freedoms of queer Floridians. Anti-LGBTQ+ extremism has no place in our society, our state, our communities nor our churches and we vehemently oppose this discrimination.

Many faith leaders identify as LGBTQ+, including some of us who have authored this piece. Our faith traditions teach us to recognize the fundamental rights of every individual, irrespective of their sexual orientation or gender identity. It is imperative for all of us to uphold the principles of equality, justice and inclusivity — the very foundation of a thriving and harmonious democracy. We have seen over time the struggles and triumphs of LGBTQ+ people’s fight for freedoms and we refuse to allow these regressive policies undermine the progress made.

It is crucial for faith communities to come together to resist all forms of discrimination, especially against those who are already marginalized. That is why we are committed to providing a safe space for all while offering spiritual nourishment, guidance and support to those in need. We call upon all people of conscience to speak out against these anti-LGBTQ+ bills, to contact their elected officials telling them we denounce these bills, and to support organizations that fight for equality and justice.

Our houses of worship will always be sanctuaries where everyone is welcome, respected and loved for who they are.

Signed,

Rev. Terri Steed Pierce
Joy Metropolitan Community Church
Orlando

Rev. Regina King
Restoration of Truth Ministries
Jacksonville

Rabbi Catriel N. Zer-Gerland
Tora V'Ahava of Florida
Tallahassee

Rev. Joe Parramore
New Journey Ministries
Quincy

Rev. Thomas Holdcraft
St. Stephen Lutheran Church
Tallahassee

Rev. Dr. Steve Blinder
Royal Palm Christian Church
Coral Springs

Rev. Dr. Russell Meyer
Florida Council of Churches
Jacksonville