Canada Must Continue to Oppose Russia's Anti-LGBTQ Laws

TORONTO, Feb. 7, 2014 /CNW/ - The United Church of Canada sent a letter today congratulating Minister of Foreign Affairs John Baird on the stance he has taken in support of the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, and queer (LGBTQ) people in Russia.

"Your leadership in advocating for the protection of the human rights of all people, especially those who are most marginalized, such as gay, lesbian, bisexual, trans, and queer people in Russia, underscores Canada's commitment to protecting and promoting human rights globally," says the letter.

The letter notes that the United Church, Canada's largest Protestant denomination, has long supported acceptance and inclusion of all human beings as persons made in the image of God regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

"As Christians, we reject the assertion that homosexuality is an offence against God and threatens the 'spiritual values' of a culture," says the letter.

The letter continues, "Cultures that last and are life-giving build in correctives to myths and rumours not based in fact. Much of the work in the struggle against the HIV/AIDS pandemic has focused on dispelling myths and ending marginalization on the basis of sexual orientation."

The complete text of the letter to John Baird is available on The United Church of Canada's website (www.united-church.ca).

SOURCE: United Church of Canada

Mary-Frances Denis, The United Church of Canada, 416-231-7680 ext. 2016 (office), 416-400-7273 (cell), [email protected]