FPC Endorses Yes on MA Question 3

This November, Massachusetts voters will have before them a ballot measure #3, which is a referendum on civil rights for transgender people. This unfortunate vote is the first time Massachusetts citizens have had the repeal of civil rights on their ballots, and it comes at a time when the federal government is considering restriction of transgender rights in ways that would eliminate the recognition of transgender people entirely at a federal level. It is important for our state to send a resounding message to our transgender citizens, and those around this country, that we support them in living as their authentic selves, and support their full inclusion in our civic and public life.

Our Unitarian Universalist faith has long stood for civil rights for LGBTQ citizens. In 2016 we passed an action of immediate witness in response to anti-transgender legislation in North Carolina. This action of immediate witness declared our opposition to any legislation throughout the country that would repeal the rights of transgender individuals. The Unitarian Universalist Association has just reaffirmed that stance, and urged Unitarian Universalists in Massachusetts to vote Yes on 3. Our statewide advocacy organization, UU Mass Action, has also affirmed a yes vote on 3.

At First Parish Church of Stow and Acton, we have long been a welcoming congregation, and we have LBGTQ inclusion at every level of our church from religious education to staff to board governance. Our congregation recently voted in a unanimous vote to display transgender pride flags on our church lawn as a sign of our love and support for the transgender community.

Today, however, with rights and their very existence being under attack, being welcoming and affirming and loving of transgender people is not nearly enough. We also must take our values into the ballot box. We, the minister and board of trustees of the First Parish Church of Stow and Acton, endorse a Yes on 3 vote and urge Massachusetts voters to take their love and acceptance with them as they vote.

In faith,

Rev. Dr. Cynthia L. Landrum

Minister

Mark Koenig

President, Board of Trustees

First Parish Church of Stow and Acton

353 Great Road, Stow, MA 01775

www.fpc-stow-acton.org • (978) 897-8149