Illinois: African-American Religious Leaders Ramp Up Campaign Against Marriage Equality

[cali]

With an expected vote on same-sex marriage in Springfield next week, African-American clergy members campaigning against the issue are threatening to unseat lawmakers who vote in favor, reports WBBM’s Mike Krauser.

Bishop Larry Trotter, of Sweet Holy Spirit Church in Chicago, is vowing that there will be consequences for those lawmakers who support same sex marriage.

“I think that they will feel the crunch. I think that they cannot take for granted that they can come to the church and get the church’s sanction and votes and signatures and then go to Springfield and don’t speak what the people want them to speak. If that’s how we have to be heard, we will be heard.”

Bishop Trotter and Bishop Lance Davis, of New Zion Covenant Church in Dolton, are planning the next moves in their campaign to defeat the measure, which appears closer to reality.

<snip>

http://chicago.cbslocal.com/2013/11/02/african-american-religious-leaders-ramp-up-campaign-against-marriage-equality/

[mucifer]

1. Yeah BUT there are A LOT of clergy fighting for equality here in IL:

An Open Letter from Illinois Clergy and Faith Leaders on Marriage

We represent people of faith from a variety of communities across our state, and we
strongly support the Illinois Religious Freedom and Marriage Fairness Act. We dedicate
our lives to fostering faith and compassion, and we work daily to promote justice and
fairness for all. Standing on these beliefs, we think that it is morally just to grant equal
opportunities and responsibilities to loving, committed same-sex couples. There can be
no justification for the law treating people differently on the basis of sexual orientation
or gender identity.

We accept our gay and lesbian brothers and sisters and recognize that their families
need equal recognition and protections. We believe all Illinois couples should have the
same civil protections and urge our public officials to support measures to achieve
equality.

http://www.chicagotribune.com/media/acrobat/2012-12/158835580-23185637.pdf

check out the over 5 pages of clergy signatures at the end of the letter!

[DonViejo]

2. I think there is a key word missing from the entire headline

and the news report, itself:

Some African-American Religious Leaders Ramp Up Campaign Against Marriage Equality

[mucifer]

3. Yes it's a huge deal I agree.

[DonViejo]

4. I cannot help but wonder if the "newspaper" isn't trying

to stir up a little racial animosity in the LGBT community; it's a favorite ploy of the wing nut brigade

[cali]

5. so this shouldn't be reported? what are you suggesting?

The fact is that a large number of AA clergy is actively engaged in opposition, to marriage equality. And in this case they are targeting lawmakers who vote for it. That's news.

[DonViejo]

6. No cali, I didn't even suggest that and I'm seriously disappointed you,

of all the people on this board, would think I would suggest it not be reported. My complaint is regarding the way the media is reporting it, NOT about you for bringing it to our attention.