Task Force: AFA-backed Perry prayer event ‘demeans our common humanity’

The Task Force responded to Texas Gov. Rick Perry’s planned “Day of Prayer and Fasting for our Nation’s Challenges.” The event, slated to take place in Houston on Aug. 6, is funded by the American Family Association (AFA), which has been designated an anti-gay hate group by the Southern Poverty Law Center.

Statement from National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Faith Work Director Rev. Rebecca Voelkel:

A designated hate group is the primary backer of Gov. Rick Perry’s so-called Day of Prayer. How exactly does this help heal our nation? It does nothing to foster a much-needed sense of community, peace and well-being. What it does do is fuel discord and division at a time when many people are hurting. The AFA has taken extreme positions that make our families more vulnerable to violence, bigotry and economic distress. This is not an act of love; it is a profoundly harmful act. This event as planned demeans our common humanity and makes a mockery of the principles of fairness and faith.