Here’s what the Memphis Baptist Ministerial Association
thinks about the LGBT community!!
Memphis Baptist Ministerial Association
Press Statement
Re: Hate Crime Bill (2007)
Date: 8/8/07
The Memphis Baptist Ministerial Association stands in total opposition to any legislation that will silence or restrict freedom of speech on the part of the churches. It is our belief that the New Hate Crime Bill is a subtle attempt on the part of the Gay Community to further legitimize itself as an acceptable lifestyle.
We find nothing in Biblical Scripture to support the same. From a pastoral perspective we do not advocate hate or violence against any citizen or group of citizens. We believe all citizens including the gay community are children of the most high God.
We also recognize the difference between homosexuals and homosexuality; God loves the Homosexual but hates homosexuality. We further believe that all citizens of these United States of America are equally protected under the 14th Amendment of our constitution.
The new Hate Crime Bill spelling out specific groups will create a two-tier justice system, the Gay community is presently protected under the 14 amendment as are all other citizens.
Mr. Matthew Shepherd, as unfortunate as his death was, was not killed because he was gay, he was killed by two (2) fellow drug abusers who wanted his money for more drugs.
Less than one percent of the 800,000 thousand plus aggravated assaults took place against American citizens because of sexual orientation. The new hate crime bill spelling out specific groups is immediately a red flag for suspicion – attaching it to the Defense Authorization Bill raises further concern. All citizens are protected under the present laws.
In Sweden, England, and Canada where similar laws have been passed, persecution for anti-gay speech did follow. We are told that this bill will impede no way our freedom – we don't buy it.
We go on record that we detest the alignment of African-Americans with homosexuals and lesbians as being equal. There is absolutely nothing immoral about being African-American. We know of no person that was denied voting rights or access to public accommodations because of sexual orientation.
Dr. Basil Brooks – President
