Brigham Young University (BYU) administrators have recently ignited controversy by implementing a more explicit ban on “same-sex romantic behavior” within the school’s Honor Code. This move has sparked concerns among students and the LGBTQ+ community, as it appears to go beyond the policy outlined by the Mormon Church, officially known as the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (LDS).
In 2020, BYU had removed a previous ban on “homosexual behavior” from the Honor Code, eliciting celebrations among some LGBTQ+ students. However, the Church Educational System, which oversees all BYU campuses, subsequently clarified that the removal did not signify acceptance of “same-sex romantic behavior.” Last month, the Honor Code was updated to explicitly prohibit such behavior, leaving many students feeling disheartened.
Mixed Messages and Moral Dilemmas
The Honor Code expects BYU students to lead “a chaste and virtuous life,” including refraining from sexual relations outside of heterosexual marriage. With the inclusion of the new language, it underscores the requirement to abstain from same-sex romantic involvement. This stance aligns with the Mormon Church’s opposition to same-sex relationships, which includes a refusal to perform same-sex marriages and discouragement of sexual activity between individuals of the same gender.
While some claim that certain LDS congregations turn a blind eye to same-sex dating within the church, BYU maintains a strict stance on policing romantic relationships. Any behavior considered “homosexual” or “same-sex romantic behavior,” including dating, hand-holding, or kissing, is prohibited. The consequences will be addressed on a case-by-case basis, with the intent to guide students in aligning with their gospel covenants and university commitments.
Discrimination in the Open
LGBTQ+ groups at BYU oppose this prohibition but acknowledge that, at least, the university is being transparent about its discriminatory stance. Evelyn Telford, a vice president of Understanding Sexuality, Gender & Allyship, expressed, “There’s no way to get around it that they are openly being discriminatory to queer students.” However, this move is expected to further isolate and subject queer students to scrutiny.
Despite these anti-LGBTQ+ policies, some queer students choose BYU due to academic opportunities, family ties, or other personal reasons. Some may even discover their sexual identity while in college, a situation experienced by many. The debate continues within the BYU community, with voices asserting that one’s sexuality should not hinder their right to be a part of the institution.
Gracee Purcell, president of the RaYnbow Collective, a group supporting queer students and alumni, emphasizes that the lack of representation and increasing societal pressures won’t deter queer students from attending BYU. However, it undoubtedly poses challenges and difficulties they will face on their journey.