Lincoln Park in Washington, DC was a fitting place for a Solidarity Picnic. On a hot and humid day in our Nation's Capital, 12 folks gathered under a shade tree to share food and drink, stories and songs. Many were from local United Methodist congregations, but a few were area LGBT activists with GetEqual. We shared our struggles for equality along with a hope for a just and peaceful society.
Across the park, the memorial to the great educator Mary McLeod Bethune stands with these words:
"I leave you love. I leave you hope. I leave you the challenge of developing confidence in one another. I leave you a thirst for education. I leave you a respect for the use of power. I leave you faith. I leave you racial dignity. I leave you a desire to live harmoniously with your fellow men. I leave you, finally, a responsibility to our young people."
As we support Josh and Trent, and all those affected by violence, may we remember our responsibility to stand in the face of injustice and fear.
Reconciling Ministries Network mobilizes United Methodists of all sexual orientations and gender identities to transform our Church and world into the full expression of Christ’s inclusive love.
