SoulForce: To Address Homophobia, Group Brings Religion & Sexuality Together

In the City of Brotherly Love, it is difficult to go a day without hearing about rights and liberties. Beyond the typical political banter of the news media and subway conversation, we are confronted with the works and actions of forefathers dedicated to "liberty and justice for all." It is no wonder then, that amidst this air of independence we find a fierce battle for equality being fought-and by fierce, I mean relentlessly non-violent.

Soulforce is a straight/gay alliance dedicated to "freedom for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people from religious and political oppression through the practice of relentless nonviolent resistance."

One of the more notable activities done is the Equality Ride. 50 young adults head out in a tour bus, making stops at conservative college campuses across the country engaging students and administration in a dialogue concerning the damaging effects of homophobia and attempting to eradicate the notion that LGBT lifestyles are "wrong or sinful."

Tommy Atz, of Philadelphia, signed up for the journey after receiving an email about the Equality Ride and immediately recognizing the good that could come from such an event.

"I had been working at the Attic as an educator, going into Philly schools and colleges to talk about LGBT issues," Tommy said. "The bus ride was an extension of what I was already doing."

After being arrested around the country (and dialoging with his arresting officers to clear up confusion they had about the LGBT community) he has insight into the process of dispelling homophobia.

"[The LGBT community] needs to get rid of the 'us and them' mentality," Tommy said. "It is getting in the way of moving forward. We are all humans. If I want to be seen as human, I have to see them as human. It only takes one person to decide to put their guard down. If you put your guard down, there is space for others to do the same."