These differences help account for the diversity of opinion in the American Quaker community about homosexuality. Evangelical Quakers in the United States and around the world resemble other more conservative religions in their view that homosexuality should not be accepted nor should same-sex unions be celebrated. For example, in 1992, the Friends Church Southwest Yearly Meeting issued a statement declaring, "We reject and utterly oppose homosexual activity, especially the 'blessing' of same sex unions, as sinful and displeasing to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ."

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In contrast, conservative Quaker communities have extended welcome and acceptance to gay men and lesbians. Many Quaker meetings have passed resolutions in favor of equal rights for glbtq people, including recognition of same-sex unions. As early as 1986, for example, the Beacon Hill, Massachusetts Meeting affirmed "the goodness of committed, loving relationships and offers recognition and support to those who share this ideal and desire to enter into a permanent relationship based upon it . . . . The same loving care and consideration should be given to both same-sex and heterosexual applicants as outlined in Faith and Practice."

Overall, Quakers who worship in the tradition of the original Quakers of the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries have responded to homosexuality with compassion and sometimes complete acceptance.

The Anglican Communion, of which the Episcopal Church in the U. S. A. is a part, has dealt with issues of sexuality in complex ways, not all of them favorable to its glbtq membership.

Spurred by the gay liberation movement of the late 1960s, a number of religious groups--including specifically gay-oriented churches and synagogues--have been formed to address the needs of gay and lesbian believers.

Today's glbtq spirituality movements must be seen as part of a long history in which gender-special people were considered sacred to their tribe or family because of their obvious spiritual gifts.

Although best known for her crusade for women's suffrage, Susan B. Anthony spoke out on a range of feminist issues.