Orlando Ex-Gay Day Event Sparks Conversation, Debate
Conference to bring underreported facts on homosexuality – and let Orlando residents decide for themselves
June 2, 2008
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – The six billboards across Orlando that introduced the idea that homosexuality can be questioned have people talking, from local talk radio debates to promises of protests.
The billboards promote Focus on the Family’s Love Won Out conference, slated for Saturday, June 7 – the same day thousands of homosexuals have chosen to visit Disney World for their annual Gay Days event. The billboards have also sparked an early debate on what causes same-sex attraction, and if homosexuality can be overcome.
“Most people would be surprised to know that the ‘born gay’ view isn’t the only one out there,” said Melissa Fryrear, director of Focus on the Family’s gender and sexuality department. She was already on Orlando airwaves last week explaining the biblical view on homosexuality and fielding a call from a local gay man who contested her points.
“I’m happy to explain my beliefs to men and women who doubt it’s possible, and to lay out Scripture, scientific evidence, and my own story. I let people make up their own minds,” said Fryrear, who, like other conference speakers, used to self-identify as homosexual and shares her testimony during the event. “This is a complex issue, and it needs to be discussed with understanding and love.”
Sometimes, though, protestors try to drown out the LWO message by attempting to prevent attendee entrance to the church or by disrupting seminars. Local groups have already organized two counter-events, upset at the message that men and women can choose to overcome unwanted same sex attraction and manage their sexuality according to their faith.
Fryrear hopes protestors will respect her right to tell her story. “Our message is for those who want to listen, and true tolerance would ensure we get a chance to speak.”
The Orlando event marks LWO’s 50th U.S. conference in its 10-year history. It will be held from 8 to 5:30 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church of Orlando, on 106 East Church Street. For interviews or JPEGs of the billboard, contact Whitney Farr at whitney.farr@fotf.org.
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