Note: Data still being compiled
March 2020
Bethlehem Area School District, PA
School sued for counselor speaking truth to a student
The Bethlehem Area School District of Pennsylvania includes the terms “sexual orientation,” and “gender identity” in its Policy Manual in section 248 Unlawful Harassment . Part of that section reads, “harassment shall consist of verbal, written, graphic or physical conduct relating to an individuals’ race … sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression …" The wording sounds like it could only be used to protect a person, but an LGBTQ individual found a way to use the wording to sue her school for not affirming her gender dysphoria and warning her parents of the risks involved with her disorder.
According to a report in the Western Journal, a 15 year-old student who identifies as “non-binary” is suing the school district because a school counselor refused to call her by her chosen pronouns of “they, them, and theirs.” The report continued, “The student claims she was told by licensed counselor Randy Alan Herzon, ‘I am from a generation that does not believe in these pronouns,’ and that he also told her parents, ‘She is setting herself up for a difficult life.’” (Sources documented on March 13, 2020)
Bethlehem Area School District, PA
School sued for counselor speaking truth to a student
The Bethlehem Area School District of Pennsylvania includes the terms “sexual orientation,” and “gender identity” in its Policy Manual in section 248 Unlawful Harassment . Part of that section reads, “harassment shall consist of verbal, written, graphic or physical conduct relating to an individuals’ race … sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression …" The wording sounds like it could only be used to protect a person, but an LGBTQ individual found a way to use the wording to sue her school for not affirming her gender dysphoria and warning her parents of the risks involved with her disorder.
According to a report in the Western Journal, a 15 year-old student who identifies as “non-binary” is suing the school district because a school counselor refused to call her by her chosen pronouns of “they, them, and theirs.” The report continued, “The student claims she was told by licensed counselor Randy Alan Herzon, ‘I am from a generation that does not believe in these pronouns,’ and that he also told her parents, ‘She is setting herself up for a difficult life.’” (Sources documented on March 13, 2020)
|
|
2019-2020
Shawnee State University
Professor reprimanded for not using the correct gender pronouns
The Shawnee State University Non-Discrimination/Sexual Harassment Policy includes the terms “sexual orientation,” “gender identity or expression” in its list of reasons a person cannot be discriminated against. Based on the university's Non-Discrimination Policy, a transgender student filed a complaint with Shawnee State University against professor Nicholas Meriwether when he refused to refer to the biological male as a woman, using feminine pronouns and titles. The formal complaint resulted in “a written warning in his personnel file that threatened ‘further corrective actions’ if he did not refer to students using pronouns that reflect their self-asserted gender identity.” Professor Meriwether took the case to Federal District Court and the Court dismissed his case, upholding the use of the Shawnee State’s Non-Discrimination Policy to discriminate against the professor. (ADFlegal 2020, The Daily Citizen 2020, and the SSU Policy documented on March 12, 2020)
Shawnee State University
Professor reprimanded for not using the correct gender pronouns
The Shawnee State University Non-Discrimination/Sexual Harassment Policy includes the terms “sexual orientation,” “gender identity or expression” in its list of reasons a person cannot be discriminated against. Based on the university's Non-Discrimination Policy, a transgender student filed a complaint with Shawnee State University against professor Nicholas Meriwether when he refused to refer to the biological male as a woman, using feminine pronouns and titles. The formal complaint resulted in “a written warning in his personnel file that threatened ‘further corrective actions’ if he did not refer to students using pronouns that reflect their self-asserted gender identity.” Professor Meriwether took the case to Federal District Court and the Court dismissed his case, upholding the use of the Shawnee State’s Non-Discrimination Policy to discriminate against the professor. (ADFlegal 2020, The Daily Citizen 2020, and the SSU Policy documented on March 12, 2020)
|
|
March 2018-2020
City of Philadelphia
Christian agency pressured to violate their beliefs
The City of Philadelphia includes "religion," “sexual orientation,” and “gender identity” in its anti-discrimination policies. In addition, it has an Office of LGBT Affairs. Official LGBT agencies and departments in governments or universities serve to promote the agenda of the LGBTQ movement.
Not surprisingly, in 2018 the City of Philadelphia threatened to shut down Catholic Social Services because they would not send foster children to the homes of same-sex couples. Catholic Social Services holds the biblical belief that marriage is between one man and one woman. That is why they do not send foster children to the homes of same-sex couples. Catholic Social Services took the City to court and the 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that the religious views of Catholic Social Services did not entitle it to an exception from Philadelphia’s anti-discrimination policy which provides protected status for “sexual orientation.” The case will be reviewed by the United States Supreme Court. (WND, 2019 Source and others documented on March 12, 2020)
City of Philadelphia
Christian agency pressured to violate their beliefs
The City of Philadelphia includes "religion," “sexual orientation,” and “gender identity” in its anti-discrimination policies. In addition, it has an Office of LGBT Affairs. Official LGBT agencies and departments in governments or universities serve to promote the agenda of the LGBTQ movement.
Not surprisingly, in 2018 the City of Philadelphia threatened to shut down Catholic Social Services because they would not send foster children to the homes of same-sex couples. Catholic Social Services holds the biblical belief that marriage is between one man and one woman. That is why they do not send foster children to the homes of same-sex couples. Catholic Social Services took the City to court and the 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that the religious views of Catholic Social Services did not entitle it to an exception from Philadelphia’s anti-discrimination policy which provides protected status for “sexual orientation.” The case will be reviewed by the United States Supreme Court. (WND, 2019 Source and others documented on March 12, 2020)
2018-2020
Fuller Theological Seminary
Seminary sued for upholding biblical standards of sex and marriage
Fuller Theological Seminary has a Sexual Standards policy that upholds its view of the biblical standard of sex and marriage. The policy reads, “Fuller Theological Seminary believes that sexual union must be reserved for marriage, which is the covenant union between one man and one woman, and that sexual abstinence is required for the unmarried. The seminary believes premarital, extramarital, and homosexual forms of explicit sexual conduct to be inconsistent with the teaching of Scripture. Consequently, the seminary expects all members of its community--students, faculty, administrators/managers, staff, and trustees--to abstain from what it holds to be unbiblical sexual practices.
Challenging that policy are two LGBTQ students who are suing the Seminary for more than $1 million. The students were expelled after the Seminary learned that they were in same-sex marriages. This case could set a precedent for faith-based institutions throughout the United States. According to the LGBT student’s attorney “the combined lawsuit is the first against a Christian institution of higher education institution for expelling a married LGBT student since the Supreme Court decided Obergefell v. Hodges in 2015.” (Western Journal, 2020 documented on March 12, 2020.)
Fuller Theological Seminary
Seminary sued for upholding biblical standards of sex and marriage
Fuller Theological Seminary has a Sexual Standards policy that upholds its view of the biblical standard of sex and marriage. The policy reads, “Fuller Theological Seminary believes that sexual union must be reserved for marriage, which is the covenant union between one man and one woman, and that sexual abstinence is required for the unmarried. The seminary believes premarital, extramarital, and homosexual forms of explicit sexual conduct to be inconsistent with the teaching of Scripture. Consequently, the seminary expects all members of its community--students, faculty, administrators/managers, staff, and trustees--to abstain from what it holds to be unbiblical sexual practices.
Challenging that policy are two LGBTQ students who are suing the Seminary for more than $1 million. The students were expelled after the Seminary learned that they were in same-sex marriages. This case could set a precedent for faith-based institutions throughout the United States. According to the LGBT student’s attorney “the combined lawsuit is the first against a Christian institution of higher education institution for expelling a married LGBT student since the Supreme Court decided Obergefell v. Hodges in 2015.” (Western Journal, 2020 documented on March 12, 2020.)
|
|
November 2019
Swiss International Air Lines
Discrimination against Christian business owner
Gay activists pressured Swiss International Air Lines to stop serving little boxes of Läderach chocolates made by the Swiss company Läderach. The company’s CEO, Johannes Läderach, is an evangelical Christian and has voiced opposition to gay marriage and abortion. LGBT activists and organizations called for a boycott of Läderach products and LGBT activists vandalized Läderach stores. Swiss Air succumbed to LGBT pressure citing fear about negative press coverage if it continued to serve Läderach pralines. (Swissinfo.ch, 2020 documented on March 13, 2020)
Swiss International Air Lines
Discrimination against Christian business owner
Gay activists pressured Swiss International Air Lines to stop serving little boxes of Läderach chocolates made by the Swiss company Läderach. The company’s CEO, Johannes Läderach, is an evangelical Christian and has voiced opposition to gay marriage and abortion. LGBT activists and organizations called for a boycott of Läderach products and LGBT activists vandalized Läderach stores. Swiss Air succumbed to LGBT pressure citing fear about negative press coverage if it continued to serve Läderach pralines. (Swissinfo.ch, 2020 documented on March 13, 2020)
|
|
2019
ACC Liverpool
Discrimination against Christian beliefs on sex
ACC Liverpool is the organization running an event center by that name. On its “Our Values” webpage they claim the event center is: “Engaging - We are inclusive to all. We are confident and respectful in our approach. We listen and consider others’ views and opinions.” Despite the claim on their website, they are not inclusive to those who hold the biblical view of marriage and sex. Evangelist Franklin Graham sought to use the arena to preach the truth of Jesus Christ. He was denied use by ACC Liverpool because he views homosexual behavior from a biblical perspective as sinful. LGBT activists and the organization Liverpool Labour LGBT Network campaigned against his appearance at the venue. ACC Liverpool turned down the evangelist on the grounds that Franklin Graham’s values were incompatible with their values. (Liverpool Echo, 2020 and CBN News, 2019 documented on March 13, 2020)
ACC Liverpool
Discrimination against Christian beliefs on sex
ACC Liverpool is the organization running an event center by that name. On its “Our Values” webpage they claim the event center is: “Engaging - We are inclusive to all. We are confident and respectful in our approach. We listen and consider others’ views and opinions.” Despite the claim on their website, they are not inclusive to those who hold the biblical view of marriage and sex. Evangelist Franklin Graham sought to use the arena to preach the truth of Jesus Christ. He was denied use by ACC Liverpool because he views homosexual behavior from a biblical perspective as sinful. LGBT activists and the organization Liverpool Labour LGBT Network campaigned against his appearance at the venue. ACC Liverpool turned down the evangelist on the grounds that Franklin Graham’s values were incompatible with their values. (Liverpool Echo, 2020 and CBN News, 2019 documented on March 13, 2020)
|
|
July 2019
United Kingdom
Doctor fired for refusing to use transgender pronouns
The United Kingdom instituted LGBT anti-discrimination protections nationwide in its 2010 Equality Act. Both “sexual orientation” and “transgender” are protected characteristics, as well as “religion.”
When Dr. David Mackereth told his employer, the Department of Work and Pensions, that he would not refer to a transgender person by their preferred pronouns, he was dismissed from his job. Dr. Mackereth argued that using such pronouns went against his Christian faith. The Government ruled that "A lack of belief in transgenderism and conscientious objection to transgenderism in our judgment are incompatible with human dignity and conflict with the fundamental rights of others." In response to the ruling Andrea Williams of the Christian Legal Centre said, "It is deeply disturbing that this is the first time in the history of English law that a judge has ruled that free citizens must engage in compelled speech." (BBC, 2019, documented on March 13, 2020)
United Kingdom
Doctor fired for refusing to use transgender pronouns
The United Kingdom instituted LGBT anti-discrimination protections nationwide in its 2010 Equality Act. Both “sexual orientation” and “transgender” are protected characteristics, as well as “religion.”
When Dr. David Mackereth told his employer, the Department of Work and Pensions, that he would not refer to a transgender person by their preferred pronouns, he was dismissed from his job. Dr. Mackereth argued that using such pronouns went against his Christian faith. The Government ruled that "A lack of belief in transgenderism and conscientious objection to transgenderism in our judgment are incompatible with human dignity and conflict with the fundamental rights of others." In response to the ruling Andrea Williams of the Christian Legal Centre said, "It is deeply disturbing that this is the first time in the history of English law that a judge has ruled that free citizens must engage in compelled speech." (BBC, 2019, documented on March 13, 2020)
|
|
July 2019
Isle of Ely, United Kingdom
School employee harassed and pressured to resign for opposing Gay Pride events
Pastor Keith Waters, who also worked part-time as a caretaker at the Isle of Ely Primary School, was harassed and pressured to resign as caretaker for posting a tweet which read, “A reminder that Christians should not support or attend LGBTQ “Pride Month” events held in June. They promote a culture and encourage activities that are contrary to Christian faith and morals. They are especially harmful to children.” Pastor Waters knew that LGBTQ Pride Events often display nudity, sadomasochistic outfits, and overtly sexual spectacles.
In response to the tweet, LGBTQ activists harassed both him and his family, started false rumors, called for a hate crime investigation, and put pressure on the Primary School. According to a report by Christian Concern, “the school’s headteacher caved to a number of demands from a handful of LGBT activists, including some parents, and Keith was issued with a final warning for allegedly bringing the school into disrepute and breaking the school’s code of conduct. As a result, Keith believed he could no longer combine his roles as pastor of his church and caretaker of the school, and decided there was no alternative but to resign.” (Christian Concern, 2019 and others documented on March 13, 2020.)
Isle of Ely, United Kingdom
School employee harassed and pressured to resign for opposing Gay Pride events
Pastor Keith Waters, who also worked part-time as a caretaker at the Isle of Ely Primary School, was harassed and pressured to resign as caretaker for posting a tweet which read, “A reminder that Christians should not support or attend LGBTQ “Pride Month” events held in June. They promote a culture and encourage activities that are contrary to Christian faith and morals. They are especially harmful to children.” Pastor Waters knew that LGBTQ Pride Events often display nudity, sadomasochistic outfits, and overtly sexual spectacles.
In response to the tweet, LGBTQ activists harassed both him and his family, started false rumors, called for a hate crime investigation, and put pressure on the Primary School. According to a report by Christian Concern, “the school’s headteacher caved to a number of demands from a handful of LGBT activists, including some parents, and Keith was issued with a final warning for allegedly bringing the school into disrepute and breaking the school’s code of conduct. As a result, Keith believed he could no longer combine his roles as pastor of his church and caretaker of the school, and decided there was no alternative but to resign.” (Christian Concern, 2019 and others documented on March 13, 2020.)
|
|
2014-2018
Atlanta, Georgia
Fire Chief fired for his Christian belief that homosexual behavior is immoral
The state of Georgia uses the federal civil rights law as its guide, without adding other protected statuses. As such it gives protected status to a person’s “religion,” but does give protected status to “sexual orientation” or “gender identity.” The City or Atlanta has added “sexual orientation” and “gender identity” as protected classes to its anti-discrimination policies. In addition, the City has an LGBTQ Affairs Coordinator and an LGBTQ Advisory Board.
In January of 2015 the mayor of Atlanta fired Fire Chief Kelvin Cochran on the basis of a men’s Bible study book he had written a couple of years earlier. In the book Cochran upheld the biblical principle that sex is reserved for marriage between one man and one woman. According to USA Today he also referred to homosexual behavior as “a sexual perversion.”Despite being recruited from the Obama administration and being awarded the distinction of 2012 Firefighter of the Year by Fire Chief Magazine, the mayor of Atlanta suspended and then fired Cochran, because his beliefs were, “inconsistent with the administration's work to make Atlanta a more welcoming city for all citizens — regardless of their sexual orientation, gender, race, and religious beliefs." (USA Today, 2015)
In 2017 “the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Georgia ruled in favor of Cochran and determined that the city’s policies were unconstitutional,” and in 2018 “the City of Atlanta agreed to pay Cochran $1.2 million in damages and attorney’s fees.” (The Federalist, 2018); (National Review, 2018); (You Tube 1); (You Tube 2)
Atlanta, Georgia
Fire Chief fired for his Christian belief that homosexual behavior is immoral
The state of Georgia uses the federal civil rights law as its guide, without adding other protected statuses. As such it gives protected status to a person’s “religion,” but does give protected status to “sexual orientation” or “gender identity.” The City or Atlanta has added “sexual orientation” and “gender identity” as protected classes to its anti-discrimination policies. In addition, the City has an LGBTQ Affairs Coordinator and an LGBTQ Advisory Board.
In January of 2015 the mayor of Atlanta fired Fire Chief Kelvin Cochran on the basis of a men’s Bible study book he had written a couple of years earlier. In the book Cochran upheld the biblical principle that sex is reserved for marriage between one man and one woman. According to USA Today he also referred to homosexual behavior as “a sexual perversion.”Despite being recruited from the Obama administration and being awarded the distinction of 2012 Firefighter of the Year by Fire Chief Magazine, the mayor of Atlanta suspended and then fired Cochran, because his beliefs were, “inconsistent with the administration's work to make Atlanta a more welcoming city for all citizens — regardless of their sexual orientation, gender, race, and religious beliefs." (USA Today, 2015)
In 2017 “the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Georgia ruled in favor of Cochran and determined that the city’s policies were unconstitutional,” and in 2018 “the City of Atlanta agreed to pay Cochran $1.2 million in damages and attorney’s fees.” (The Federalist, 2018); (National Review, 2018); (You Tube 1); (You Tube 2)
|
|
2013-2020
State of Washington
Florist sued for not providing flowers for a same-sex marriage
The State of Washington includes "creed" and “sexual orientation” in its list of protected statuses that cannot be discriminated against. In addition, the state’s interpretation of Title IX of the 1972 Federal Education Amendment
includes protected status of gender identity and gender expression.
In 2013 florist Barronelle Stutzman refused to participate in or design custom floral arrangements celebrating a same-sex wedding. She had regularly served homosexual persons and employed them. According to her legal counsel, the Alliance Defending Freedom, “Rather than take part in an event that violates her faith, Stutzman referred Robert Ingersoll, whom she considers a friend, to several nearby florists. The two then discussed his wedding plans, they hugged, and Ingersoll left. He never filed a complaint with the attorney general’s office. The attorney general chose to pursue Stutzman because of news reports based on social media posts.” The American Civil Liberties Union also joined the lawsuit against Stutzman. The court ruled against the florist and ordered her to pay penalties and attorneys’ fees. (ADF, 2014) The case went to the Washington Supreme Court, which upheld the lower courts order. Alliance Defending Freedom has asked the United States Supreme Court to hear the case. (ADF, 2020); (FOX You Tube, 2015); (ADF YouTube, 2014)
State of Washington
Florist sued for not providing flowers for a same-sex marriage
The State of Washington includes "creed" and “sexual orientation” in its list of protected statuses that cannot be discriminated against. In addition, the state’s interpretation of Title IX of the 1972 Federal Education Amendment
includes protected status of gender identity and gender expression.
In 2013 florist Barronelle Stutzman refused to participate in or design custom floral arrangements celebrating a same-sex wedding. She had regularly served homosexual persons and employed them. According to her legal counsel, the Alliance Defending Freedom, “Rather than take part in an event that violates her faith, Stutzman referred Robert Ingersoll, whom she considers a friend, to several nearby florists. The two then discussed his wedding plans, they hugged, and Ingersoll left. He never filed a complaint with the attorney general’s office. The attorney general chose to pursue Stutzman because of news reports based on social media posts.” The American Civil Liberties Union also joined the lawsuit against Stutzman. The court ruled against the florist and ordered her to pay penalties and attorneys’ fees. (ADF, 2014) The case went to the Washington Supreme Court, which upheld the lower courts order. Alliance Defending Freedom has asked the United States Supreme Court to hear the case. (ADF, 2020); (FOX You Tube, 2015); (ADF YouTube, 2014)
|
|
2014-2015
Gordon College, Massachusetts
Christian College threatened for biblical beliefs on homosexual behavior
Gordon College in Massachusetts is a private Christian college that upholds biblical sexual morality. When President Obama issued an executive order banning federal contractors from discriminating based on sexual orientation, the president of Gordon College became a co-signer on letter sent to the President asking for a religious exemption to the order. The letter stated, “Without a robust religious exemption… this expansion of hiring rights will come at an unreasonable cost to the common good, national unity and religious freedom.”
LGBT activists and their allies retaliated against the college. “The city of Salem suspended a contract that allowed Gordon College to use its Old Town Hall. The Lynn School Committee, representing a nearby school district, unconstitutionally refused to accept Gordon’s education students as student teachers. The truly ominous threat, however, came from the school’s accreditor, the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC).” The NEASC met to consider whether Gordon College’s prohibition of homosexual behavior was cause to lose their accreditation.
When the story made national news other Christian colleges and their supporters weighed in supporting Gordon College. After a year of self-study, Gordon College continued its prohibition of homosexual behavior as well as sex outside of (traditional) marriage. The NEASC backed off and reaffirmed Gordon College’s accreditation. (National Review, 2015 documented March 20, 2020)
Gordon College, Massachusetts
Christian College threatened for biblical beliefs on homosexual behavior
Gordon College in Massachusetts is a private Christian college that upholds biblical sexual morality. When President Obama issued an executive order banning federal contractors from discriminating based on sexual orientation, the president of Gordon College became a co-signer on letter sent to the President asking for a religious exemption to the order. The letter stated, “Without a robust religious exemption… this expansion of hiring rights will come at an unreasonable cost to the common good, national unity and religious freedom.”
LGBT activists and their allies retaliated against the college. “The city of Salem suspended a contract that allowed Gordon College to use its Old Town Hall. The Lynn School Committee, representing a nearby school district, unconstitutionally refused to accept Gordon’s education students as student teachers. The truly ominous threat, however, came from the school’s accreditor, the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC).” The NEASC met to consider whether Gordon College’s prohibition of homosexual behavior was cause to lose their accreditation.
When the story made national news other Christian colleges and their supporters weighed in supporting Gordon College. After a year of self-study, Gordon College continued its prohibition of homosexual behavior as well as sex outside of (traditional) marriage. The NEASC backed off and reaffirmed Gordon College’s accreditation. (National Review, 2015 documented March 20, 2020)
|
|
2013-2020
Gresham, Oregon
Bakers sued for refusing to bake a wedding cake for a lesbian couple
The Oregon Equality Act of 2007 amended many Oregon statutes by including a prohibition of discrimination based on sexual orientation. The LGBTQ legal entity Lambda calls the Oregon Equality Act of 2007 a landmark law, and told LGBT people they could start taking action in 2008. Oregon law also prohibits discrimination based on “religion.”
Melissa and Aaron Klein are/were owners of an Oregon bakery called Sweet Cakes by Melissa. Because of their Christian faith, the Klein’s would not be part of a homosexual wedding. When they refused to bake a wedding cake for a lesbian wedding in 2013, the lesbian couple sued the bakery. The Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries ruled that the bakery violated the civil rights of the lesbian couple per the Oregon Equality Act of 2007. The couple had to close their bakery and they were fined $135,000. In 2020 the U.S. Supreme Court ruled the fine violated the Klein’s constitutionally protected rights of religious freedom. The couple is now back in the Oregon Court of Appeals. (Fox News, 2014 and Washington Times, 2020 documented on March 20, 2020)
On a side note, in 2015 the Klein’s baked ten heart shaped cakes with the words “We really do love you,” and gave them to ten LGBT organizations. (Oregonlive.com, 2016 documented March 20, 2010)
Gresham, Oregon
Bakers sued for refusing to bake a wedding cake for a lesbian couple
The Oregon Equality Act of 2007 amended many Oregon statutes by including a prohibition of discrimination based on sexual orientation. The LGBTQ legal entity Lambda calls the Oregon Equality Act of 2007 a landmark law, and told LGBT people they could start taking action in 2008. Oregon law also prohibits discrimination based on “religion.”
Melissa and Aaron Klein are/were owners of an Oregon bakery called Sweet Cakes by Melissa. Because of their Christian faith, the Klein’s would not be part of a homosexual wedding. When they refused to bake a wedding cake for a lesbian wedding in 2013, the lesbian couple sued the bakery. The Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries ruled that the bakery violated the civil rights of the lesbian couple per the Oregon Equality Act of 2007. The couple had to close their bakery and they were fined $135,000. In 2020 the U.S. Supreme Court ruled the fine violated the Klein’s constitutionally protected rights of religious freedom. The couple is now back in the Oregon Court of Appeals. (Fox News, 2014 and Washington Times, 2020 documented on March 20, 2020)
On a side note, in 2015 the Klein’s baked ten heart shaped cakes with the words “We really do love you,” and gave them to ten LGBT organizations. (Oregonlive.com, 2016 documented March 20, 2010)
|
|
2012-2020
Colorado
Baker sued for not making a wedding cake for a same-sex wedding
Colorado’s anti-discrimination laws includes "creed" and “sexual orientation (including transgender status)” as protected classes.
In 2012 a gay couple asked a Christian baker by the name of Jack Phillips to provide a wedding cake for their wedding. Jack politely refused, but offered to bake cakes for them for other occasions such as birthdays. Shortly thereafter, Jack and his family started receiving threatening phone calls because of his Christian view of marriage between one man and one woman. Then the gay couple filed a complaint with the Colorado Civil Rights Commission for sexual orientation discrimination. A Judge ruled against Jack Phillips. According to Phillips’ attorneys, “The commission ordered Jack and his staff to either violate Jack's faith by designing custom wedding cakes that celebrate same-sex marriages or stop designing all wedding cakes, which was approximately 40% of Jack's business. In addition, Jack was ordered to "reeducate" his staff by teaching them that he was wrong to operate his business consistently with his faith. The state also required Jack to file quarterly “compliance” reports telling the government every time that he declines a custom cake request and explaining the reasons why.” (ADF, 2018) The case made its way to the United States Supreme Court, which ruled 7-2 in Jack’s favor, stating that Colorado’s Civil Rights Commission showed an anti-religious bias.
The same day the Supreme Court agreed to hear Jack’s case, another LGBTQ activist initiated a request to challenge Jack’s religious beliefs. This request was for a cake to celebrate the transitioning of a male to a female. Based on the Bible Jack believes God made humans male and female. It is a biological reality, not something we choose or can change. These actions show the relentless persecution LGBTQ activists are willing to engage in. (ADF, 2019); (CBSN Denver, 2019);
(YouTube testimony)
Colorado
Baker sued for not making a wedding cake for a same-sex wedding
Colorado’s anti-discrimination laws includes "creed" and “sexual orientation (including transgender status)” as protected classes.
In 2012 a gay couple asked a Christian baker by the name of Jack Phillips to provide a wedding cake for their wedding. Jack politely refused, but offered to bake cakes for them for other occasions such as birthdays. Shortly thereafter, Jack and his family started receiving threatening phone calls because of his Christian view of marriage between one man and one woman. Then the gay couple filed a complaint with the Colorado Civil Rights Commission for sexual orientation discrimination. A Judge ruled against Jack Phillips. According to Phillips’ attorneys, “The commission ordered Jack and his staff to either violate Jack's faith by designing custom wedding cakes that celebrate same-sex marriages or stop designing all wedding cakes, which was approximately 40% of Jack's business. In addition, Jack was ordered to "reeducate" his staff by teaching them that he was wrong to operate his business consistently with his faith. The state also required Jack to file quarterly “compliance” reports telling the government every time that he declines a custom cake request and explaining the reasons why.” (ADF, 2018) The case made its way to the United States Supreme Court, which ruled 7-2 in Jack’s favor, stating that Colorado’s Civil Rights Commission showed an anti-religious bias.
The same day the Supreme Court agreed to hear Jack’s case, another LGBTQ activist initiated a request to challenge Jack’s religious beliefs. This request was for a cake to celebrate the transitioning of a male to a female. Based on the Bible Jack believes God made humans male and female. It is a biological reality, not something we choose or can change. These actions show the relentless persecution LGBTQ activists are willing to engage in. (ADF, 2019); (CBSN Denver, 2019);
(YouTube testimony)
|
|
2012-2016
Upstate New York
Couple sued for not providing venue for same-sex wedding
The State of New York includes "creed" and “sexual orientation, gender identity and expression” as protected classes in its anti-discrimination law, which it calls the New York State Human Rights Law.
This law was the basis for a lesbian couple suing Robert and Cynthia Gifford in upstate New York for refusing to host the lesbian couple’s same-sex wedding on their farm. The Gifford politely refused the lesbian couple based on their Christian belief that homosexual behavior is immoral. Using the New York State Human Rights Law the state of New York ruled against the Giffords, fining them a total of $13,000. The Giffords no longer host weddings on their farm. Their lawyer told a New York Post reporter, “State government should not be forcing people to violate their own religious beliefs, nor should they be forced to make a choice between making a living and violating their own faith.” (New York Post, 2014); (The Washington Times, 2016)
Upstate New York
Couple sued for not providing venue for same-sex wedding
The State of New York includes "creed" and “sexual orientation, gender identity and expression” as protected classes in its anti-discrimination law, which it calls the New York State Human Rights Law.
This law was the basis for a lesbian couple suing Robert and Cynthia Gifford in upstate New York for refusing to host the lesbian couple’s same-sex wedding on their farm. The Gifford politely refused the lesbian couple based on their Christian belief that homosexual behavior is immoral. Using the New York State Human Rights Law the state of New York ruled against the Giffords, fining them a total of $13,000. The Giffords no longer host weddings on their farm. Their lawyer told a New York Post reporter, “State government should not be forcing people to violate their own religious beliefs, nor should they be forced to make a choice between making a living and violating their own faith.” (New York Post, 2014); (The Washington Times, 2016)
|
|
2010
Augusta State University/Augusta University
Christian student threatened and punished for her biblical view of homosexuality
Although the state of Georgia does not give “sexual orientation” a protected status, Augusta University does. Augusta’s Non-Discrimination Anti-Harassment Policy includes “sexual orientation” along with “creed.”
Jennifer Keeton, A counseling student at Augusta State University, was informed by professors in her counseling program that her Christian beliefs were “unethical and incompatible with the prevailing views of the counseling profession.” She was then informed that “she must change her beliefs in order to graduate from the counseling program.” The university required her to undergo a re-education program which included attending a Gay Pride Parade in Augusta. Keeton refused to undergo the re-education program and took the university to court. (ADF 2010, documented March 20, 2020).
A U.S. District Judge and a U.S. Appeals Court both ruled the university had the right to require Keeton to attend their “remediation plan,” to address “what the faculty perceived as deficiencies in her ‘ability to be a multiculturally competent counselor, particularly with regard to working with gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and queer/questioning (GLBTQ) populations’” Keeton was then expelled from the university’s counseling program. (ADF, 2014, documented March 20, 2020)
Augusta State University/Augusta University
Christian student threatened and punished for her biblical view of homosexuality
Although the state of Georgia does not give “sexual orientation” a protected status, Augusta University does. Augusta’s Non-Discrimination Anti-Harassment Policy includes “sexual orientation” along with “creed.”
Jennifer Keeton, A counseling student at Augusta State University, was informed by professors in her counseling program that her Christian beliefs were “unethical and incompatible with the prevailing views of the counseling profession.” She was then informed that “she must change her beliefs in order to graduate from the counseling program.” The university required her to undergo a re-education program which included attending a Gay Pride Parade in Augusta. Keeton refused to undergo the re-education program and took the university to court. (ADF 2010, documented March 20, 2020).
A U.S. District Judge and a U.S. Appeals Court both ruled the university had the right to require Keeton to attend their “remediation plan,” to address “what the faculty perceived as deficiencies in her ‘ability to be a multiculturally competent counselor, particularly with regard to working with gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and queer/questioning (GLBTQ) populations’” Keeton was then expelled from the university’s counseling program. (ADF, 2014, documented March 20, 2020)
|
|
2009
Eastern Michigan University
Graduate student dismissed for unwillingness to counsel a same-sex couple
In 2009, graduate student Julea Ward was dismissed from Eastern Michigan University’s counseling program for her unwillingness to counsel a homosexual client about same-sex relational issues. Her religious beliefs were the determining factor in her unwillingness to affirm homosexual behavior, and she respectfully asked that the homosexual client be referred to another counselor.
Administrators used the protected status of “sexual orientation” in the universities nondiscrimination policy to dismiss Julea Ward, clearly discriminating against her religious beliefs. The university also prohibited counselors from revealing to clients that a homosexual orientation is sometimes changeable. Julea Ward sued the university and won a settlement. (ADF, 2016 documented on March 20, 2020)
Eastern Michigan University
Graduate student dismissed for unwillingness to counsel a same-sex couple
In 2009, graduate student Julea Ward was dismissed from Eastern Michigan University’s counseling program for her unwillingness to counsel a homosexual client about same-sex relational issues. Her religious beliefs were the determining factor in her unwillingness to affirm homosexual behavior, and she respectfully asked that the homosexual client be referred to another counselor.
Administrators used the protected status of “sexual orientation” in the universities nondiscrimination policy to dismiss Julea Ward, clearly discriminating against her religious beliefs. The university also prohibited counselors from revealing to clients that a homosexual orientation is sometimes changeable. Julea Ward sued the university and won a settlement. (ADF, 2016 documented on March 20, 2020)
|
|
2008
University of Toledo
Administrator fired for writing an editorial countering LGBT perspective on homosexuality
In April of 2008 the president of the University of Toledo fired Crystal Dixon, an associate vice president for Human Resources, for expressing her opinion in a local newspaper that homosexuality was against God’s divine plan and that it was possible to leave the homosexual life.
The University of Toledo’s Non-discrimination Policy in 2008 had protected status for both “religion” and “sexual orientation.” It has since added “gender identity and expression.” The university president used the protected status of “sexual orientation” to over-ride Crystal Dixon’s right to not be discriminated against based on her religious creed. (Toledo Free Press, 2008 sources documented on August 7, 2009)
University of Toledo
Administrator fired for writing an editorial countering LGBT perspective on homosexuality
In April of 2008 the president of the University of Toledo fired Crystal Dixon, an associate vice president for Human Resources, for expressing her opinion in a local newspaper that homosexuality was against God’s divine plan and that it was possible to leave the homosexual life.
The University of Toledo’s Non-discrimination Policy in 2008 had protected status for both “religion” and “sexual orientation.” It has since added “gender identity and expression.” The university president used the protected status of “sexual orientation” to over-ride Crystal Dixon’s right to not be discriminated against based on her religious creed. (Toledo Free Press, 2008 sources documented on August 7, 2009)
|
|
2007-2012
Federal agency
Counselor fired for not lying about her biblical belief regarding homosexuality
The federal Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits discrimination on the basis of “race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.,” but the CDC Nondiscrimination Notice does not contain the word “religion.”
In 2007 Marcia Walden, a counselor for the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, referred a lesbian client to another counselor in the Atlanta CDC complex, because the woman wanted help repairing a lesbian relationship. Marcia’s Christian faith views homosexual relationships as immoral. The client filed a complaint and CDC administrators instructed Marcia to lie in future similar instances by stating that she did not have enough experience in relationship counseling. Marcia refused to lie in the future and was subsequently fired. She filed suit claiming religious discrimination and lost in both District Court and a Court of Appeals. The court ruled the CDC had offered a “reasonable accommodation of her beliefs.”
(ADF, 2012); (Christian Post, 2012); (YouTube 2011): (All sites documented April 6, 2020)
Federal agency
Counselor fired for not lying about her biblical belief regarding homosexuality
The federal Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits discrimination on the basis of “race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.,” but the CDC Nondiscrimination Notice does not contain the word “religion.”
In 2007 Marcia Walden, a counselor for the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, referred a lesbian client to another counselor in the Atlanta CDC complex, because the woman wanted help repairing a lesbian relationship. Marcia’s Christian faith views homosexual relationships as immoral. The client filed a complaint and CDC administrators instructed Marcia to lie in future similar instances by stating that she did not have enough experience in relationship counseling. Marcia refused to lie in the future and was subsequently fired. She filed suit claiming religious discrimination and lost in both District Court and a Court of Appeals. The court ruled the CDC had offered a “reasonable accommodation of her beliefs.”
(ADF, 2012); (Christian Post, 2012); (YouTube 2011): (All sites documented April 6, 2020)
|
|
2006-2014
New Mexico
Photographers fined for not working at a lesbian commitment ceremony
The New Mexico Human Rights Act of 1969 includes “sexual orientation” and “gender identity” as protected statuses that cannot be discriminated against.
In 2006 photographer Elaine Huguenin declined to photograph a same-sex commitment ceremony as it conflicted with her biblical beliefs. Despite the lesbian couple’s ability to hire another photographer, a complaint was filed with the New Mexico Human Rights Commission. The Commission ruled that the Huguenins had violated New Mexico Human Rights Act and ordered them to pay the plaintiff’s attorney fees in the amount of $6,637.94 The Huguenins were represented by the Alliance Defending Freedom, which reported, “The case then made its way through the New Mexico state court system, and the New Mexico Supreme Court upheld the ruling. In a concurrence accompanying the court’s opinion, one of the justices wrote that the Huguenins “now are compelled by law to compromise the very religious beliefs that inspire their lives,” adding “it is the price of citizenship.” The United States Supreme Court declined to hear the case. (USA Today, 2014)
New Mexico
Photographers fined for not working at a lesbian commitment ceremony
The New Mexico Human Rights Act of 1969 includes “sexual orientation” and “gender identity” as protected statuses that cannot be discriminated against.
In 2006 photographer Elaine Huguenin declined to photograph a same-sex commitment ceremony as it conflicted with her biblical beliefs. Despite the lesbian couple’s ability to hire another photographer, a complaint was filed with the New Mexico Human Rights Commission. The Commission ruled that the Huguenins had violated New Mexico Human Rights Act and ordered them to pay the plaintiff’s attorney fees in the amount of $6,637.94 The Huguenins were represented by the Alliance Defending Freedom, which reported, “The case then made its way through the New Mexico state court system, and the New Mexico Supreme Court upheld the ruling. In a concurrence accompanying the court’s opinion, one of the justices wrote that the Huguenins “now are compelled by law to compromise the very religious beliefs that inspire their lives,” adding “it is the price of citizenship.” The United States Supreme Court declined to hear the case. (USA Today, 2014)
2006
State of Massachusetts
Boston Catholic Charities Adoption Agency forced to close or violate their religious beliefs
In 1989 Massachusetts became the second state to add “sexual orientation” to their nondiscrimination policy. Now the “Notice of Nondiscrimination” includes “gender identity and expression.”
In 2006, Massachusetts authorities told Boston Catholic Charities that their adoption agency must comply with the state’s anti-discrimination laws and place children with homosexual couples. Boston Catholic Charities chose not to use their funds for a costly lawsuit and closed their adoption agency. “Their joint statement concluded that they could not find a way to ‘reconcile the teaching of the Church which guides our work and the statutes and regulations of the commonwealth’" (Catholic World News, 2006 documented July 11, 2014)
State of Massachusetts
Boston Catholic Charities Adoption Agency forced to close or violate their religious beliefs
In 1989 Massachusetts became the second state to add “sexual orientation” to their nondiscrimination policy. Now the “Notice of Nondiscrimination” includes “gender identity and expression.”
In 2006, Massachusetts authorities told Boston Catholic Charities that their adoption agency must comply with the state’s anti-discrimination laws and place children with homosexual couples. Boston Catholic Charities chose not to use their funds for a costly lawsuit and closed their adoption agency. “Their joint statement concluded that they could not find a way to ‘reconcile the teaching of the Church which guides our work and the statutes and regulations of the commonwealth’" (Catholic World News, 2006 documented July 11, 2014)