A school in Wilmington, North Carolina, is reportedly attempting to institute a "Biblical morality policy" that would bar students from attending the educational institution if they have members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community in their family.
Last week Myrtle Grove Christian School reportedly sent home a letter to families of children attending the school alerting them to the policy change, which cites a number of biblical passages as validation for the move.
The letter states:
...at what point are a family's moral affirmations or lifestyles far enough away from the biblical center that we cannot hold hands in partnership?... the school reserves the right, within its sole discretion, to refuse admission of an applicant or to discontinue enrollment of a student if the atmosphere or conduct within a particular home or the activities of the student are counter to or are in opposition to the biblical lifestyle the school teaches. This includes, but is not necessarily limited to, participating in, supporting, or affirming sexual immorality, homosexual activity, or bisexual activity; promoting such practices; or being unable to support the moral principles of the school.
The letter in full can be read here.
The school's "Biblical morality policy" has sparked protests, such as the group demonstrating across the street from the school in the above video, as well as a Facebook group called "Boycott Myrtle Grove Christian School." The group's description calls the school's efforts "a step backward from 21st century learning to archaic judgment and hate" and argues "this school should not be awarded TAXPAYER dollars for vouchers."
The protestors reportedly stated that they wanted to voice their opinion about the "message of hate" being sent by Myrtle Grove Christian School.
According to Salon, Myrtle Grove will be eligible to receive taxpayer-funded private school vouchers in 2014.
The national backlash comes on the heels of a Bronx Catholic school postponing a talk scheduled to be given by a controversial speaker, referred to as a "pray the gay away" proponent, whose organization allegedly attempts to "cure" gay and lesbian individuals through a 12-step program.
(h/t Towleroad)