Affirmation: Gay & Lesbian Mormons

Road to Reconciliation Story Contest
“We learn best – and change – through stories that build emotional connections”

by Janeen Thompson, Foundation for Reconciliation
March 2010

We are seeking stories from LDS or former LDS Gays, Lesbians, Bisexuals and Transgenders or their families and loved ones. The purpose of these stories is to create an emotional connection to LDS members and to the public at large, so that greater empathy and understanding will be created and reconciliation of the LGBT community and the Mormon Church can commence. We believe that change will come from members whose hearts have been softened and who will not tolerate discrimination and mistreatment of LGBT members.

First prize is $1,000. The deadline for submission is September 1st, 2010. Winners will be announced at the San Francisco Affirmation conference.

The best of these stories will be published in a book called Road to Reconciliation. Publication is expected by the end of 2011. Proceeds from this book will be donated to the Foundation for Reconciliation for furthering the work of reconciliation. The submission of your story constitutes your permission to have your story included in this book.

The suggested length for these stories is 1000 – 5000, but no story will be disqualified based strictly on length. Stories will be judged by a 3 member panel, independent of the Foundation. You may submit your story anonymously. You may change identifying information to protect your identity. Please give your story a title.

We would like to hear about your upbringing, your church involvement, your realization regarding your sexual orientation; how you adjusted or how you failed to adjust, how you were treated, particularly with regard to the Church; the struggles you went through and how you have reconciled your orientation with, or despite, Church teachings. If you have not be able to reconcile your orientation, tell us about that, and any other information that is pertinent or that you would like to share. Stories should be submitted to ldsapology

gmail.com.

We would like to thank you in advance for sharing what must be some of the most personal and exposed aspects of your life. The power of stories cannot be underestimated. It is what has shaped cultures and societies throughout history and what can bring about change and acceptance in the LDS Church.

Please see the Contest Flyer for additional details about this project.