A church responded with love after a hateful vandal tore down its LGBTQ+-affirming banner
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Sacramento, California – In a surprising turn of events, the Parkside Community Church of Sacramento responded to a recent act of vandalism by reaching out to the perpetrator instead of turning to the police or social media for assistance in identifying him. The church, known for its LGBTQ+ inclusive values, caught the incident on its surveillance camera and decided to address the vandal directly by putting up a new banner featuring his name and an open invitation for dialogue.
The incident occurred near the start of the new year when the church’s security camera captured a young man tearing down their rainbow Pride banner. The video footage clearly showed the vandal’s face, and audio captured someone off-screen calling him “Zach” as he aggressively removed the banner with a box cutter.
“We were disheartened by the act of vandalism,” said Leslie Serra, head of community outreach at Parkside Community Church. “But instead of resorting to public shaming or seeking punishment, we wanted to offer Zach an opportunity to talk and understand why he felt the need to do this.”
The church quickly erected a new two-by-six-foot banner in place of the one that was torn down. It featured a heart in the colors of the Progress Pride flag and a message specifically addressed to Zach, asking him if he wanted to discuss his actions. The banner also included a QR code that linked to an open letter from the church.
In the open letter, the church expressed concern about the theft, suggesting it could be considered a hate crime. “We’re not sure if you intended to keep it or destroy it, but either way, we’re concerned because you looked really angry and awfully anxious,” the letter stated. It continued by emphasizing the church’s commitment to inclusivity and invited Zach, as well as others, to reach out privately if they wanted to talk about their feelings.
“We believe that no matter who you are, or where you are on life’s journey – you are welcome here,” the letter declared. “At Parkside Community Church, we are a caring community, pursuing justice, practicing diversity, and promoting spiritual journeys.”
Leslie Serra emphasized that the church’s response was rooted in their values of acceptance and compassion. “We want to practice what we preach,” she said. “Regardless of what’s going on with Zach or anyone else who reads that sign, we want to extend our welcome as we do every Sunday morning.”
Sadly, this act of vandalism is not an isolated incident for the Parkside Community Church. Over the past three years, more than 20 banners expressing support for the LGBTQ+ and trans communities have been vandalized while displayed in front of the church. Replacement banners have become a regular expense in the church’s annual operating budget, according to The San Francisco Chronicle.
Despite the church’s response, the Sacramento Police Department stressed the importance of reporting acts of vandalism, particularly if they are believed to be hate crimes. While the church’s approach is commendable, law enforcement believes it is crucial to hold perpetrators accountable for their actions.
Ebony Harper, executive director of California TRANScends, a trans healthcare organization, commended the church’s response. “I think there is a space to educate. I think there is a space to love on Zach, even though Zach is doing something horribly wrong,” she said.
The incident at Parkside Community Church raises important questions about how communities can respond to acts of vandalism and hate with compassion and understanding. While law enforcement plays a vital role in maintaining public safety, there is merit in exploring alternative approaches that prioritize dialogue and education over punishment.
As the story of Zach and Parkside Community Church continues to unfold, it serves as a reminder that building bridges and fostering understanding can be powerful tools in addressing acts of hate and intolerance.
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