The State of Illinois has passed legislation that now makes it illegal to discriminate against gays and lesbians. Opponents argued it would lead to approval of gay marriage in Illinois, supporters called it a basic human rights issue, saying discrimination of gays and lesbians over housing and employment is just as wrong as discriminating against people because of race or religion.

Now comes along the Catholic Conference of Illinois trying to exact a privileged position above the law. Robert Gilligan, Executive Director of the Catholic Conference of Illinois, and Fr. Dennis J. Lyle of University of St. Mary of the Lake/Mundelein Seminary appear to be claiming the right of the Catholic Bishops of Illinois to discriminate. They claim the law was poorly written because it did not make a distinction between sexual orientation and sexual activity. Since when has the state become the vehicle to promote Catholic Teaching?

Responding to their letter in the Catholic New World, Joe Murray, US Convener of the Rainbow Sash Movement called the Catholic Conference to honor the rich history of Catholic Social Justice, and to honor the law. “I do not understand how defending my human rights can be interpreted as being against the teaching of the Catholic Church.” He also reminded the Catholic Conference of Illinois, and Fr. Lyle to honor the rich tapestry of Catholic Social Justice. “Catholic social teaching is a permanent process of learning in which the continuity of fundamental principles are always paired with new insights.”

The Rainbow Sash Movement will challenge any effort on the part of the Catholic Bishops of Illinois not live up to the letter of the Law. Any attempt by Catholics Hospitals not to treat gay couples, and their children will be challenged. Any attempt by Catholic Charities across the state not to feed the poor because they are gay couples will be challenged. Any attempt to refuse to educate the children of gay couples will be challenged. Any attempt to discriminate will be challenged. We call the Catholic Conference of Illinois to live up to their mission statement.

Murray is calling for listening sessions to be held across the state and in Chicago at Holy Name Cathedral, and is asking the Catholic Conference of Illinois to sponsor them.

To find out more about the Rainbow Sash Movement, and how you can join please visit our web site at www.Rainbowsashmovement.com