Group Announces Essay Contest for Gay LDS

Posted by adminwp on Mar 28, 2010 in Quips & Quotes | 0 comments

An organization dedicated to reconciliation between the LDS Church and gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people has announced an essay contest to foster what its Web site calls “greater empathy and understanding” between the two groups.

Foundation for Reconciliation (also known as LDSapology.org) is seeking stories from current or former gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender Latter-day Saints on a number of topics pertaining to their experiences in the church.

“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,” the organization posted to its Web site.

The suggested word count for stories submitted to the Road to Reconciliation Writing Contest is 1,000–5,000 words, though stories over and below this count will also be considered, and may be submitted anonymously. A three-member panel consisting of non-foundation members will judge the pieces. Overall, the foundation is looking for heartfelt and honest stories rather than flawless writing skills.

“Unlike other writing contests, our contest winners will be selected by a panel of individuals, and winners will not be selected based on who is the most professional, or best story writer or who has the best writing or English skills, but instead more for how honest and sincere their experience and feelings are expressed in order to touch and reach others hearts,” wrote Foundation director Cheryl Nunn.

“I see this contest and the book that will be published from these stories as a great opportunity to support the LGBT community and spread the word to open and soften many hearts, particularly in the Mormon, Christian and right wing political communities that may be greatly misinformed on LGBT issues,” she continued.

Cash prizes will be awarded to the top three essays: $1,000 for first place, $500 for second place and $250 for third. These essays and a selection of others will be published in a book titled Road to Reconciliation, which is expected to be available for purchase in late 2011 (all proceeds will go towards furthering the work of the foundation).

Submissions will be accepted until Sept. 1. Winners will be announced at the Affirmation Conference, which will be held Oct. 8–10 in San Francisco. To submit, email LDSapology@gmail.com. For more information visit LDSapology.org.