Soulforce: A Force To Be Reconciled With

"The purpose of Soulforce is freedom for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people from religious and political oppression through the practice of relentless nonviolent resistance."

"In March 2007, fifty-six young activists boarded two buses and began a two month long journey that will take them to thirty-two colleges that have policies banning the enrollment of openly LGBT students. Through dialogue with administrators, faculty and students, the young activists of the 2007 Equality Ride will make clear the harmful effects of the false notion that homosexuality is a "sickness and a sin." To make public their case for equality, the young activists on the Equality Ride will hold vigils, Bible studies, class discussions, community forums, and press conferences. By doing so, the riders will bring the message and theme of this year's ride "Faith Forward: Social Justice for LGBT People" to these institutions".

"Homophobia is globally pervasive, and no community or school escapes its reach. In 2006, during the inaugural Equality Ride, participants traveled to nineteen schools and engaged students, faculty, and administrators in conversation about the damaging effects of homophobic doctrine, the false notion that lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender identities are sick and sinful. This year, the journey continues with fifty young adults going to thirty-two Christian colleges and universities. Two buses are taking the group on two distinct routes around the country in creative pursuit of social justice. In doing so, they are empowered to change countless lives. Love liberates the oppressed, redeems the lost, and resurrects the spirit."

Soulforce is on the road. The two buses are visiting some colleges that are historically rooted in racism, sexism, divisiveness and oppression. One of my best friends is on the West bus and is touching base with me every chance he can get. He tells me stories of being met with opposition, police presence, threats of arrest and many times actual arrest, false hospitality and prevention from attending worship services. Try to imagine being threatened with arrest for attempting to attend a worship service because of who you are. Other times, however, these courageous activists are welcomed for open dialogue and a chance to speak with students and faculty about reconciling faith and identity. The city council of Seattle even proclaimed April 11th as "Equality Ride 2007 Day".

Too many of our country's youth are suffering in silence. Too many LGBT youth commit suicide because they have no safe place and no voice. The Equality Ride is their voice.

Please visit the Soulforce blog and stay updated on their works: http://www.soulforce.org/blogs/

Also, if you would like to contribute to Soulforce Equality Ride, please visit:
https://www.soulforce.org/application.php?application=donate&campaign_id=6

As a straight ally, I want to say thank you to all the riders. I miss my friend but I know he is being of service for the greater good of humanity. All of the riders have sacrificed so much of themselves...time off from school, work, time away from friends, family, partners. They have given up 2 months of their lives to devote themselves to the mission of Soulforce. I encourage everyone reading this blog to engage in peaceful conversation with their friends and neighbors. Reach out to those who are being intimidatd into silence. Stand up on your campuses and demand equality and safety for ALL students.

As Jarrett Lucas of the East Bus stated: "Human rights should not be a debate".