Thread by @EnriqueLimon

Protest happening right now at @BYU #utpol

The event, which invites people of the same gender to express affection on campus grounds, was organized by LGBTQ+ students and allies taking aim at the college’s “homophobic policies.”

“This Valentines Day we will flood campus with queer joy” the protest’s flyer, which began circulating a few days ago on social media, read.

In response, some students showed rainbow flair on their backpacks and carried yellow flowers. The more daring ones held hands.

In 2020, the college relaxed its persecution of “homosexual behavior,” but officials reiterated that “Same-sex romantic behavior cannot lead to eternal marriage and is therefore not compatible with the principles in the honor code.”
deseret.com/faith/2020/3/4…

About 100 supporters gathered at the Wilkinson Student Center before walking on a loop around the college’s iconic buildings #utpol

Matt Easton (left) made national headlines when he came out during his 2019 #BYU valedictorian speech. He returned to Utah specifically to attend today’s protest.

“I think today was less about trying to make something happen in the moment and cause a ruckus, and more about existing in a space authentically,” alumn @StaceyHarkey said.

Harkey said he was closeted during his stint at BYU.

“I never really gave myself a chance to get to know me,” he said about his experience living under the #HonorCode.

Other than a couple of surprised looks and a cheer or two from passers-by, the affectionate protest ended without incident (and with campus security at bay).

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