Allow the practice of LGBTQ rights on BYU campuses

Allow the practice of LGBTQ rights on BYU campuses

Started
March 9, 2020
Petition to
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and 2 others
Signatures: 36Next Goal: 50
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Why this petition matters

"Love one another, as I have loved you. So also you must love one another". John 13:34. As God commanded his children, to love each and every one of them no matter the differences. Members of the LGBTQ+ community are not exempt from this law, as "Gods Laws cannot be changed". Members of BYU from communities, campuses, and organizations rejoiced as their freedom of romantic expression on February 19th were addressed and legalized in accordance the the BYU honor code. The honor code being a set of rules, regulations, and laws students must obey while enrolled on campus. The "homosexual behavior" section in the honor code was updated stating that homosexual relationships will now be treated the same as heterosexual ones. Which differed from the previous iteration on the matter, stating, "Homosexual behavior is inappropriate and violates the honor code. Homosexual behavior includes not only sexual relations between members of the same sex, but all forms of physical intimacy that give expression to homosexual feelings.” BYU is now clarifying its words however, as on March 4th an official statement from Commissioner of the Church Educational System, Elder Paul V. Johnson states in his letter, "Same sex romantic behavior cannot lead to eternal marriage and therefore not compatible with the principles included in the honor code". 

Students who came out leading to believe that they were safe are now fearing for their educational future, and personal safety. The honor code in this matter does not promote equality, safety, or freedom of expression and speech. This goes against Article 19 in the U.S Constitution, as well as the Human Rights Act of 2003. Laws that go against LGBTQ+ rights are also violating human rights, and promote behavior and mentalities that can be harmful to the welfare of people worldwide. These policies need to change, as promoting equality among race, sexuality, and identity perpetuates the fulfillment of basic human rights, and leads to the homeostatic treatment of people worldwide. Jesus Christ himself advocated for the equal treatment of the children of God, and loved them despite differences. As demonstrated with his quote, as he protected a woman accused of adultery, "He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her". Members of the church are taught to walk in jesus's footsteps. I think its about time that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints act on that principle. And allow for the interactions of same sex relationships to be legalized permanently. We are all Gods children, its time we start treating each other how God wants us to treat each other. That love can be expressed by allowing love to be shared, no matter the identity, gender, or romanatic affiliation.

"As I have loved you,
Love one another.
This new commandment:
Love one another.
By this shall men know
Ye are my disciples,
If ye have love
One to another."

- hymn no.308, LDS Church Hymn Book

 

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Signatures: 36Next Goal: 50
Support now

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