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Let Willkommen truly be welcomed | News, Sports, Jobs – NUjournal

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To the editor:

One of the central values within our community is “Willkommen,” which even appears on the sign as one enters town. My concern is that many of our LGBTQIA+ neighbors feel quite the opposite, not only unwelcome, but also unsafe in our midst.

I understand the opposing viewpoints regarding homosexuality well, as I grew up with one firm perspective within my Christian family. Through the authentic faith expression of LGBTQIA+ people I have known, however, I firmly believe that working toward welcome and understanding is the more grace-full Christian path.

I grew up in a conservative Christian extended family. My parents, aunts and uncles were dear, kind and loving people. They clearly expressed their opinion that homosexuality was a sin. Since my identity was strongly heterosexual, I didn’t have any reason to question that value and viewpoint. I hadn’t yet known any LGBTQIA+ persons up close and personal. Although they were all around me I didn’t see them, and I had no clue how I might be hurting them.

In one case within my family, dear and loving parents refused to let my cousin’s spouse into the home, which brought nearly two decades of separation and hurt. Every year there were empty seats at Thanksgiving and Christmas. Reflecting on this still brings deep sadness. So much lost…

One of my medical school instructors from over 35 years ago did not “come out” until recently, when forced to do so by depression stemming from inauthenticity. I had two gay men in my high school class of 96 students, but they did not feel safe to reveal that until our 40th reunion.

Likewise, I worry that publicly expressed attitudes within our community say to our LGBTQIA+ youth: “Welcome, but don’t dare be yourself when you are with us.” That isn’t “welcome” at all.

In New Ulm the need for a change of heart is compelling. Last winter some of our players harassed a gay athlete on the basketball court. One patient of mine was severely harassed at work. LGBTQIA+ persons I know have told me that they do not feel welcome within our community, churches and schools. They don’t feel safe.

The heterosexual population has it easy, as their sexual identity fits the social norm. LGBTQIA+ persons, however, have an identity that is often ridiculed and rejected. Yet, the identity expressed by the LGBTQIA+ persons I have known is equally as authentic as mine. It is truly who they are.

Many of our neighbors are hurting–far deeper than we know. To be welcoming, we have a lot of work to do. May we approach sexual orientation issues with an open heart, while pondering the suffering and isolation inflicted by careless (and even well-intentioned) words. Above all, may we be willing to accept others as they are, and listen to understand…

Let “Willkommen” truly be “Welcome!” (including everyone) expressed by hearts of compassion, that are ever learning and transforming.

Roger Lindholm

New Ulm

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