LDS Church releases statement following its support for the new LGBTQ rights bill

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saint announced Monday, 7 February 2022, its support for a new LGBTQ rights bill in Arizona.

The new bill seeks to protect gay and transgender people from discrimination by businesses, landlords, and employers.

The legislation would prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity in housing, workplaces, and places of public accommodation.

The church did not speak at the news conference but released a statement afterward.

“The Church is pleased to be part of a coalition of faith, business, LGBTQ people and community leaders who have worked together in a spirit of trust and mutual respect to address issues that matter to all members of our community. It is our position that this bipartisan bill preserves the religious rights of individuals and communities of faith while protecting the rights of members of the LGBTQ community, consistent with the principles of fairness for all.”