Although based out of Ann Arbor's LGBTQ Jim Toy Center, Inclusive Justice describes itself as a "state-wide, faith-based coalition, inclusive of all traditions that affirm the inherent dignity and worth of every human being as a matter of spiritual conviction." The charity dates back to 1993, when it began motivating religious communities to accept the LGBTQ population. Now, it is using its influence in religious circles to aid LGBTQ students.
"The State Board of Education approved supportive guidelines for LGBTQ students in September of 2016. Schools want to know if people of faith support these guidelines," said an Inclusive Justice press release.
The group is urging religious people who support the LGBTQ community to sign a letter to affirm their support for LGBTQ youth. Details about the letter and a means to sign up can be found online at gaybe.am/2W. Its full text is below:
Dear Education Professional,
As Faith Leaders and People of Faith in Michigan, we urge you to consider immediate adoption of the State Board of Education Statement and Guidance on Safe and Supportive Learning Environments for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Questioning (LGBTQ) Students.
We strongly encourage the adoption of these guidelines for all public and private K-12 schools, colleges, and universities in Michigan.
Our schools are an integral part of our communities, reflecting our values and commitment to our children's lives and their education. We believe these guidelines reinforce safe and supportive learning environments for all students in Michigan, and offer the best path forward to reduce the unique obstacles our Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Questioning students encounter in pursuit of their education.
We support these guidelines because they protect the dignity of all students, helping to ensure that all students are treated with respect and understanding.
Our diverse faith traditions and lived experiences teach us to love our neighbor and honor all life. We take this obligation seriously and believe strongly that the guidelines support this belief by thoughtfully addressing family and school engagement, as well as student needs.
Those signed below are in agreement that these guidelines should be adopted without delay and we, along with our faith communities, urge your full support.
visit gaybe.am/2W for more information about the letter, and a means to sign it.
