Advocates of LGBT equality and secular politics gathered at the state Capitol Wednesday to protest a prayer rally hosted by famed evangelical Reverend Franklin Graham.
The event was part of Graham’s “Decision America” tour, a cross-country campaign pushing for religion in government and encouraging his supporters to vote. Between sermons and directed group prayers, constituents were repeatedly called on to vote for public officials who adhere to the Bible.
“Our forefathers never meant for Christians or people of faith to leave their faith out here on the street when they walk into the Capitol. We need men and women of integrity, of Christian commitment to be serving in office at every level,” Graham said to the crowd, which organizers said reached more than 5,000.
An outspoken denouncer of the LGBT community, he advised against electing supporters of same-sex marriage.
He urged them to “honor God with their vote by supporting candidates who will uphold biblical principals including the sanctity of life and the sacredness of marriage.”
Protesters defending the LGBT community waved equality flags around the Capitol. Among them was Wisconsin Rep. Chris Taylor, D-Madison.
“We’re out here protesting on the side of love, on the side of compassion, to counter the hate that has invaded our city today,” Taylor said. “We are standing as a community of tolerance and justice, in opposition to what Franklin Graham and his followers expound—which is hatred.”
Protesters opposing religion in politics also led peaceful demonstrations at the rally.
“I’m a fan of the Constitution,” said Madison lawyer Jim Murray. “I believe in the separation of church and state. I’m not happy with any religious figure trying to so openly and actively influence politics.”
Co-president of the Freedom from Religion Foundation Dan Barker expressed solidarity with the LGBT community.
“I support the LGBT protesters here today. Because Franklin Graham supports what the Bible says about homosexuals being put to death,” Barker said. “And he thinks American policies should be based on bloodthirsty Old Testament policies that homosexuals are sinful. They’re not sinful. If the Bible says homosexuals are wrong, the Bible is wrong.”
