131. Ringing in Controversy: The Salvation Army's Complicated Relationship with the LGBTQ+ Community

Since 1865, the Salvation Army has provided social services, such as shelter, food, and rehabilitation programs, to people in need. While known for its goodwill and iconic holiday red kettle campaign, the organization has faced controversy within the LGBTQ+ community over past policies and statements perceived as discriminatory.

In this episode, we’re exploring the Salvation Army’s complex relationship with the LGBTQ+ community and the steps it has taken in recent years to improve inclusivity.

Additional Resources:

• Committee’s Inquiry into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse
• Suit Claims Group's Staff Is Pressured On Religion
• Settlement in Salvation Army Suit on Proselytizing
• No Ban on Harry Potter, Twilight Xmas Donations, Says Sally Ann
• The Salvation Army's History of Anti-LGBT Discrimination
• Salvation Army Cuts S.F. Programs / Charity Spurns City's Domestic Partner Law
• Charity Is Told It Must Abide By Antidiscrimination Laws
• Salvation Army Uses Homeless to Fight Gay Benefits
• B.C. Salvation Army Volunteer Tells Gay Rights Supporters Not to Donate
• Statement in Response to Australian Radio Interview
• Salvation Army Refers People to Ex-Gay Groups
• Salvation Army 'Does Not Consider Homosexual Orientation a Sin'
• Ellie Goulding Threatens to Cancel Her Cowboys Thanksgiving Halftime Show Over Salvation Army Concerns
• Salvation Army Says It's No Longer Homophobic
• Chick-fil-A Stops Donations To Anti-LGBTQ Groups
• Macy's Won't Host Salvation Army This Holiday Season
• Salvation Army Commander: Yes, We Are Faith-Based Charity. But We Serve and Love Everyone.

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