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SALT LAKE CITY — Organizers of a faith fair and rally to support Utah's LGBTQ community are working to end the labeling, negativity and isolation that they believe has occurred [with a recent policy change](
"It is important to remember that no matter what religion or belief system a person has, in the end, love is all we have," said Sarah Scott. She said it is hard to deny that people have been and continue to be impacted by the church's Nov. 5 statement regarding children living with same-sex parents.
In a policy update designed to support family harmony, the church affirmed its doctrine and belief that marriage is between a man and a woman. It said children living in a home with same-sex parents cannot be baptized until they turn 18 and are able to make the decision to live the church's standards without coming in conflict with their parents.
About 200 people gathered at the state capitol building on Saturday, to display various welcoming faiths and mental health or support groups, but also to "rally for love, equality, family and acceptance," according to organizers of the event.
Several activists spoke to the crowd and dozens of attendees then walked together to the Church Office Building in a show of solidarity. "I am active LDS and I want to bring a message of love," said Logan resident Lauralee Cole. "God loves all of his children. It's not my place to judge them."
She said she wanted members of the LGBTQ community to know the friendships and alliances they have with members in the church can remain unchanged by the recent policy changes.
Jack Walker, who as a woman said he was raised in the LDS Church, said following his heart and embracing changes to become a transgendered person has not been easy but has made him happy.
"Every person on this planet matters," he said. "We can't control policies, but we can control how we respond."
