Open Letter

Rev. William G. Sinkford, President of the Unitarian Universalist Association, has released an open letter to Unitarian Universalists regarding 2008 marriage/family ballot initiatives which were voted on November 4th. An initiative in Arkansas concerned the right of unmarried couples to serve as foster or adoptive parents. Florida and Arizona voted to write discrimination into their state constitutions as they defined marriage as being between one man and one woman. In California, Proposition 8 similarly amends the state constitution.
Sinkford said, “This work was—and remains—profoundly important, in spite of disappointing results at the polls. Please know that your work was not in vain.” He added, “Our faith community will continue to fight for marriage equality for all people, regardless of sexual orientation and gender identity. We will continue to offer steadfast and passionate support for all bisexual, gay, lesbian, and transgender people. And we will continue to defend the rights of all committed couples to marry and to extend loving family environments to children in need.

“Marriage equality will one day be a reality throughout the country. As we mourn our recent losses, we also renew our commitment to education, advocacy, and love. In spite of the setbacks, we are making progress, one state at a time. Justice is knocking, and our work is helping to open a very heavy door. “

Sinkford’s complete letter can be found at http://www.uua.org/news/newssubmissions/121906.shtml .