The Lesbian and Gay Christian Movement

Originally founded in the United Kingdom in 1976 as the Gay Christian Movement, the Lesbian and Gay Christian Movement (LGCM) supported gay and lesbian Christians experiencing discrimination within their churches; urged denominations to reexamine doctrines concerning homosexuality; advocated for lesbian and gay civil rights both within the church and through legislation; and networked with other groups. In 2017, the LGCM merged with another group to become OneBodyOneFaith. The materials in this collection trace the changing attitudes toward homosexuality in Britain during the latter half of the twentieth century as reflected within the church, government, and society. They also reveal LGCM's emphasis on reasoned discourse as a tool to protest inequities and advocate for change. "Year files" contain LGCM's extensive writings and speeches in response to numerous issues. Administrative items feature the organization's founding documents, annual reports, financial materials, and press releases. Other files contain meeting minutes and working papers from subcommittees, such as those for evangelicals and Roman Catholics. The collection also includes material from local LGCM groups throughout Britain. Subject files contain LGCM materials on topics such as HIV/AIDS and various pieces of proposed legislation. Correspondence with individuals and with gay and lesbian faith-based groups worldwide round out the collection. This collections provides valuable source material for researchers interested in LGBTQ experiences in Britain during the twentieth and early twenty-first centuries.