KISSING THE DAMNED: EMBRACING A QUEER-POSITIVE SEXUALITY IN THE HEART OF ZION Much has been explored about the conflicts that arise from being gay and being Mormon. The stigma of shame has often led many LGBT members to experience their sexuality in shadow, cheating on spouses, meeting on the “down-low,” and drug abuse. However, years of hard-fought activism have effectively reduced the stigma of homosexuality in our culture. The result is a new generation of selfactualized, productive queer men and women. This panel will feature men and women with a Mormon upbringing who have thoughtfully embraced authentic gay lives. The panel will also address the recent Church pamphlet, God Loveth His Children, and suggest how embracing a queer-positive sexuality can empower those struggling with depression, anxiety, and conflict with both faith and family.

TROY WILLIAMS, KIM LYNN, JOSH MOON, and MISSY LARSEN