Straight White American Jesus Red State Religions: The Religious Fight for Same Sex Marriage in Alabama Part II
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Apr 10, 2025 Luna Jensen Broussard, a retired Unitarian Universalist minister, shares her journey officiating same-sex weddings in Birmingham, Alabama, right after legalization. She discusses the pivotal role of Unitarian Universalist churches in promoting inclusivity within conservative spaces. Personal stories from couples Kay and Andrew reveal the challenges and triumphs of love in a restrictive environment. The conversation also highlights the church's commitment to social justice and its historical connection to the civil rights movement, blending faith with activism.
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Weddings at the Courthouse
- In 2015, outside the courthouse where MLK Jr. was imprisoned, ministers conducted same-sex wedding ceremonies.
- This followed a legal victory for same-sex marriage in Alabama.
Beyond the Bible Belt Stereotype
- The "Bible Belt" label is overly simplistic and doesn't reflect the diversity of faiths within those states.
- Progressive religious communities exist and actively shape their communities, even in conservative areas.
UU Church and Civil Rights
- Birmingham's Unitarian Universalist Church, though relatively new, has a rich history of social justice involvement.
- Initially hesitant, the church became active in civil rights after the 16th Street Baptist Church bombing.