Point Loma Nazarene University will not allow an LGBT organization on campus. For many students, not only is the decision disappointing, it's also frustrating.
Nazarene alumn Todd Clayton is questioning the decision by launching a petition. Here's what he told KPBS about it:
Q. Why are you involved?
A. Now, as an alum, I'm really passionate about making Point Loma Nazarene Christian College safer and a more loving place for LGBT students.
Q. Now, as I understand it, students weren't asking even for an affirmation from the school, just an acknowledgement and then word came there wouldn't be such a student organization. Obviously, that didn't go over well with you, so you've decided not to give up the fight.
A. Right, I think that's a real important point because even as now, an alum, I have a deep abiding passion for LGBT equality. I also recognize that Point Loma is uniquely situated in terms of its affiliation with a denomination that doesn't affirm LGBT people in all parts of their religious life. The reason the denial is so frustrating is that, you were exactly right, the club wasn't asking to move the theological position of the church, but simply wanted a space for LGBTQ students to gather.
Q. Are you the person behind the petition drive?
A. I am. The petition has actually taken off in a really surprising manner. And I think what that shows is that even among conservative Christians there is growing support for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender inclusion and safety.
More than 1,200 signatures appeared on the petition, which will ultimately be delivered to the university's cabinet and president.
