Equality Ride Road Report: October 2, 2008
And so begins the Equality Ride! Yesterday, we hit the road, commencing our two-month journey for justice. Like the inaugural Equality Ride in 2006, our very first stop this year was at Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia.
Arriving in the early afternoon, five Equality Riders, led by Katie Higgins, went on campus to donate an armful of books to the school library while the rest of us stood vigil. Currently, Liberty does not lend any titles that affirm the lives and love of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people. However, that may soon change if administrators decide to keep our gift. Indeed, we are hopeful!
Throughout the day, we engaged dozens of people. We discussed scripture and shared our stories, eagerly making the most of dialogue and fellowship. It was truly inspiring and productive. Speaking to our solidarity and the beauty of the experience, many Riders expressed that they felt a divine grace and unimaginable peace in their hearts, and I certainly agree.
The night concluded with song and reflection as we recounted details of our visit. Even more encouraging is the fact that we were joined in celebration by gay Liberty students and some of their wonderful allies, all of whom face each day with unbelievable courage.
We look forward to the rest of our time here and believe that the weeks ahead will be filled with growth, healing, and transformative conversation. Please, keep following our journey as we prepare to head south, setting our sights on Columbia, South Carolina!
Warmly,
Jarrett Lucas
2008 Equality Ride Co-director
To view photos of the visit to Liberty University go to www.soulforce.org/album/14
To watch news coverage of the visit to Liberty University go to www.youtube.com/watch?v=6z-z_
To read the USA Today article on the Equality Ride visit to Liberty University go to www.soulforce.org/article/1437
Currently 426 sponsors have helped raised $28,950.00 towards the goal of $63,000.00. The Equality Ride depends on the financial support of folks like you. To sponsor one of the riders please go to www.soulforce.org/2008riders
Friday Night Fantasies
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