HRC Statement on World Vision Reversing Course on Employment Policies

by Charles Joughin

WASHINGTON – Upon news that World Vision USA, one of the largest charitable organizations in the country, has reversed an earlier decision to employ married gays and lesbians, HRC Religion & Faith Program Director Dr. Sharon Groves released the following statement:

“We are devastated by the decision of World Vision USA to purposefully exclude married lesbian and gay employees after only recently taking an important first step in addressing inequality in their workplaces. While they said their aim was to respect the diversity of religious viewpoints on marriage, they have now buckled under the pressure of the radical right and alienated millions of fair-minded people of faith.

“At a time when people are losing their lives around the globe simply for being who they are, such a reversal is not just sad but is sends a potentially catastrophic message.  The Gospel calls on us to stand with the marginalized wherever they are.  Many of the poorest people around the globe who World Vision serves are doubly marginalized because of their sexual orientation or gender identity.  At a time when Pope Francis is asking, "Who am I to Judge?" World Vision has decided they can judge with impunity and at great cost to those who need them the most.”

The Human Rights Campaign is America’s largest civil rights organization working to achieve lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against LGBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all.

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