How can I respond to people who object to GLBT people for religious reasons?
Usually, there is no way to change the minds of individuals who base their negative beliefs about GLBT people on strict religious convictions. However, while respecting their right to believe as they wish, you can share some information with them. Concerning “conflicts” between GLBT people and Christianity, it can be useful to point out that identifying as Christian is not necessarily incompatible with being supportive of GLBT people. There is a great deal of diversity among the Christian community with regard to beliefs about same-gender sexuality. In addition there is much disagreement about the Biblical basis for condemning GGBT people. Many religious scholars argue that the Biblical passages which are said to refer to same-gender sexuality have been misinterpreted. It is also important to point out that while individuals are entitled to their personal religious beliefs; these opinions should not be used to deny GLBT people equal treatment under the law.
