In a direct challenge to what she describes as a climate of religiously-justified bigotry, Reverend Liz Edman, an Episcopal priest from Wisconsin, has helped lead a public demonstration of support for transgender people. The event, titled "Not In Jesus’ Name", sought to counter anti-trans rhetoric and violence, which organisers argue is often fuelled by certain factions within American religious discourse.
The rally took place last Sunday, beginning with a two-hour march around Madison’s Capitol Square. This was followed by a sung prayer service held inside the Wisconsin State Capitol Rotunda. The gathering was covered by local broadcaster WMTV and the British LGBTQIA news service PinkNews.
Reverend Edman spoke forcefully about the current situation for transgender individuals in the United States. "Transgender people are under violent assault, both physical and spiritual," she stated. "For too long, such violence has been justified by appeals to religion. But we aim to follow Jesus, who taught us to catch stones thrown at vulnerable people, not throw them ourselves."
She criticised those who use faith as a weapon of condemnation. "So many people in the name of God are pointing at others and saying, you are a problem. You are a problem. Therefore, you are condemned. We’re coming to get you."
Edman articulated an alternative vision of religious duty, centred on protection and personal responsibility. "We believe that faith is something that we’re responsible to live well. And anytime you point fingers at somebody else and go after them, you have violated the terms of our covenant with God."
Concluding her remarks, Reverend Edman framed the act of solidarity as a courageous necessity. She asserted that "faith demands courage, especially when innocent people are being preyed upon for political gain." The event highlighted a growing movement within some Christian communities to actively oppose discrimination and stand with marginalised groups.
