Update May 8th:  Official Statement

L.U.K.E. (St. Luke Families in support of Love, Unity, Kindness, and Equality) condemns discriminatory hiring practices on the basis of sexual identity or marital status and we seek the immediate renewal of our beloved teacher’s ministerial covenant for the 2024-2025 school year. We further seek an amendment to the Office of Catholic Schools Employee personnel handbook to include ‘marital status’ in the anti-discrimination policy (Section 3.1A).

For our full statement, please visit: 
https://www.lukeforchange.com/

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Father Brad, the parish priest at St Luke recently denied contract renewal for a beloved teacher on grounds of her sexual orientation and upcoming marriage to her partner. This action is not only discriminatory but also violates the principles of equality and justice that we hold dear in our community.  It also violates the covenants of the Archdiocese that “[we] affirm that all forms of unjust discrimination, prejudice, or violent attack upon
individuals because of their sexual orientation or identity are utterly incompatible with the
message of the Gospel and have no place in Catholic schools or parishes” as set forth in https://archseattle.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Ministerial-Covenant-Task-Force-Recommendations-August-2021.pdf 

The teacher, who has been an integral part of our educational system, was dismissed solely because she identifies as gay and is marrying her partner this summer. This decision by Father Brad sends a harmful message to our students about acceptance and inclusivity.

According to a study conducted by GLSEN (Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network), such actions contribute significantly towards creating an unsafe environment for LGBTQ students in schools (GLSEN National School Climate Survey). It's crucial that we stand up for fundamental rights within our community and protect its LGBTQ members from such unjust practices.

We urge you to sign this petition demanding that the Archdiocese reinstate this dedicated teacher immediately. We must ensure that no one faces discrimination based on their sexual orientation or personal life choices. Stand with us today in defending equality, justice, and respect for all members of our community. Sign this petition now!