The Religious Response Network
What is Measure 9?
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Measure 9 has been placed on the November ballot by the Oregon Citizen's Alliance (OCA). The ballot measure "prohibits public school instruction encouraging, promoting, sanctioning homosexual, bisexual behaviors." This so-called "Student Protection Act" would bring anti-gay discrimination into every public school, community college, university, hospital, and prison in Oregon where educational opportunities are offered.
People of Faith say No on 9
We come from a variety of religious traditions. Our practices vary, our sacred texts reflect diverse understanding of the Holy One, our beliefs are multiple. Yet, we carry the same deep longing for our communities. We want our daily lives to be filled with compassion, our children to be nurtured toward living lives of hope, and peace to reign.
Religion is central to who we are and what we believe. We are taught to love God and neighbor, to offer charity whenever possible, to work towards justices and peace. That is why we are adamantly opposed to Measure 9. There is nothing in this initiative that reflects the presence of the Holy One. It will not help our children, it will harm them. And this is something we cannot abide, for our children are precious gifts.
Vote No on Measure 9.
The Challenge Before Us
Our religious traditions offer us the vision of sustaining hope, the goodness of humanity, and the blessedness of life. These traditions also require us to treat everyone with respect and regard, especially those with whom we disagree.
The challenge before us is to continue to love one another, even those with whom we disagree. The Religious Response Network advocates for compassion in all that we say, write, and do. We seek the de-escalation of conflict and divisive dialogue. We believe that deep and abiding conversation is possible between people who strongly disagree when community environments offer support and encouragement for everyone.