Moments of Resistance – Advocating for LGBTQ+ Inclusion

Resistance to exclusionary practices within the UMC has often come from bold acts of defiance and steadfast advocacy. The 1999 holy union ceremony of Jeanne Barnett and Ellie Charlton is a landmark example of such resistance. Taking place at St. Mark’s United Methodist Church in Sacramento, the ceremony was co-officiated by 69 clergy members in open defiance of church law. The Barnett-Charlton Union Invitation provides insight into the motivations behind this act, framing it as a testament to love, justice, and the sacred worth of LGBTQ+ relationships. By holding this ceremony, the participating clergy sought to challenge the UMC’s prohibition against same-sex unions, making a powerful statement about the need for change.

Organizations like Affirmation also played a crucial role in pushing for LGBTQ+ inclusion within the UMC. The Affirm! Newsletter highlights the group’s work at the General Conference, where it sought to hold church leaders accountable for perpetuating discriminatory policies. Affirmation’s advocacy extended beyond rhetoric, incorporating strategies such as organizing press conferences, creating educational materials, and building coalitions with other progressive groups.

The Hinand Mailgram offers a brief yet potent example of resistance within the United Methodist Church, capturing the intersection of personal advocacy and institutional accountability. Written by Gail Hinand, the letter commends the Women’s Division of the UMC for its bold decision to support a lesbian worker despite opposition. This action not only affirms the sacred worth of LGBTQ+ individuals but also challenges systemic discrimination within the church. As a piece of correspondence, the mailgram underscores how acts of solidarity—no matter how small—serve as meaningful resistance against exclusionary practices, highlighting the critical role of allyship in pushing for a more inclusive UMC.

These moments of resistance demonstrate the courage and creativity of those who have worked to disrupt the status quo and advocate for justice within the UMC.