BIG GAY WEDDING FAQs
[from/for event]

Q: Who is the Sure Foundation Baptist Church and the IFB (Independent Fundamental Baptist) Movement?

> A: The New Independent Fundamental Baptist (New IFB) movement is a loose network of independent churches concentrated in the U.S. connected by their belief in certain religious doctrines and a shared brand of deeply anti-LGBTQIA2S+ and antisemitic teachings. New IFB pastors frequently call for LGBTQIA2S+ people to be killed and make other disparaging, violent remarks about the LGBTQIA2S+ community. New IFB pastors promote antisemitism, claiming that Jewish people today worship Satan and are not “true” Jews.

Q: Why are we here, today?

> A: We are here to support the LGBTQIA2S+ community and stand against hateful rhetoric and calls from the SFBC to commit acts of violence against the Queer Community by a showing of Love and Commitment

Q: Why are there people here with guns? They look scary.

> A: We have a presence of armed Community Defense to help keep us safe from acts of violence against those who would wish us harm. They look scary to keep the bad guys away from us. Community Defense Participants are trained and highly qualified and they are here for Our protection.

Q: Why don’t we just have the police protect us?

> A: Our community is made up of very diverse and marginalized peoples. Many of us have trauma related to policing. We cannot trust and rely on a system of oppression to safely guard and protect the oppressed.

Q: How does Community Defense work?

> A: We have trained Defense Participants, Medics and De-Escalators here to keep things calm and peaceful. Through dialogue and patience our teams will persistently attempt to successfully diffuse any potential conflict. This includes walking the agitated party off-site to where they are no longer a threat.

Q: If the police show up, what do I do?

> A: Nothing. You do not have to speak with them. You are here participating in a legal and constitutionally protected activity. We have people designated to handle the police, collect names and badge numbers and to inform them “We are here legally and do not need your assistance.”

Q: Why a Big Gay Wedding?

> A: Everyone loves weddings and what better show of Love and Commitment to our community than the ultimate act of Love and Commitment. Plus, there’s cake.

Q: What is a community?

> A: Community is a unified body of individuals, or people with common interests living in a particular area or the area itself as defined by Webster’s Dictionary. We believe a community to be truly embodied through direct action, support for those in need and the realization that We are all in this Together. This includes assisting all of those in need in whatever capacity we are able. We believe that “We Keep Us Safe”

Q: How can I help build my community?

> A: Reach out to those in need, meet your neighbors, listen to marginalized voices. There are so many ways to build a community, but they all start with dialogue and a willingness to grow and learn. Use today to find common ground with a new person and build trust with them.

Q: How can I help fight Fascism, Racism and Bigotry?

> A: If you see something/someone that fits the description of the above mentioned, then speak up. If you feel it is unsafe to speak up, then reach out via community networks, social medias. Involve your community by reaching out to the connections you made here today.