Here’s your must-read pair of essays for the day, by two sisters: one an observant Mormon and one a lesbian activist. Oil and water? Only at first.
Kate Kendell, executive director of the National Center for Lesbian Rights (and a mom), grew up Mormon, but after coming out, found herself increasingly at odds with her more observant sister Sharon. Her piece about healing their relationship, and her sister’s own piece, which she read at a recent Mormon church gathering, show that strong faith and support for gay people are not mutually exclusive. In fact, as her sister discovered, the former necessitates the latter.
That’s an important message as the U.S. Tenth Circuit Court of Appeal hears oral arguments in the Utah marriage case this Thursday. It’s also an important message to carry forward with us from this season of Passover and Easter, when faith is on many people’s minds. Thanks to Kate and Sharon for sharing their stories with us.