The board of trustees at Abilene Christian University has recently rejected a resolution passed forward by the Student Government Association. This resolution requested a change be made to the sexual stewardship policy to be more accepting of same sex marriage, and subsequently LGBTQ+ students. 

Many students are disappointed by this decision as it does not reflect the views of the majority of the student body, or even its Bible department. One proponent of the change explains, “it is a sad day when an institution that claims to believe in open investigation of all subjects, and has a bible department that doesn’t believe in fundamentalist literalism anymore, still can’t be inclusive and fair because of wealthy donors who refuse to open their minds.” The decision of the University to refuse a change to the currently standing policy both undermines its dedication to an education that promotes growth, and is a blatant act of discrimination that only serves to kindle hate on campus.

Instead of lighting the fire that contributes to persecution, we are asking that ACU light the fire within that hungers and thirsts for righteousness. It is time for the University to look beyond its pockets and its history of upholding outdated perspectives on sexual stewardship. Instead, the focus should be on promoting an environment that teaches its students to love others as Christ does.