Why We Still Need GALA, Gay and Lesbian Acceptance

Author

Jerry M. Dale, Jr.
President, GALA
​Washington, D.C.

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For the last 30+ years members of Community of Christ have been working toward full acceptance of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex and Asexual (LGBTQIA+) individuals through an organization called GALA, Gay and Lesbian Acceptance. A separate organization from the church, GALA has been an advocacy organization and a place of retreat and community for members of the LGBTQIA+ community and their allies. The work of GALA has helped move the church forward, sometimes kicking and screaming, into a bold new future.
 
The question often comes up, with national conferences requesting changes to the policy regarding marriage and ordination of LGBTQIA+ people, does the church still need GALA? I say YES, emphatically, YES!
 
What we often see in organizations is that a change in policy does not change the culture of the organization. Continued conversation, education, growth, understanding and courageous leadership is what helps change culture. Community of Christ has a long way to go, and it will take anyone associated with GALA to continue to speak out for justice.
 
What can we do?
 
At the World Church level:

• Press for updated Youth and Family Camp Policies for LGBTQIA+ campers.
• Updated Priesthood manual language for Weddings.
• Encourage our leaders to speak about LGBTQIA+ issues in official publications and when speaking publicly.
• Encourage our leaders to help other countries truly embrace the Worth of All Persons, Unity in Diversity and Blessings of Community.

 
At the local level:

• Encourage congregations to go through a Welcoming and Affirming program to become a Welcoming Congregation.
• Get to know your local LGBTQIA+ leaders in your community and invite them to share with us.
• Attend parades, festivals and other community events to share information about GALA and Community of Christ.

 
Individually:

• Speak freely and often about GALA when speaking publicly.
• Keep abreast of the latest research and language around the LGBTQIA+ community.
• Join GALA which will help us continue to provide high quality resources.

 
The need for GALA will exist until the entire Community of Christ around the globe is truly a safe place for all.