What is Soulforce?
Soulforce began in 1998 and is named after Gandhi’s term "satyagraha", which means "truth force" or "soul force." Gandhi defined this as a plan of action that developed inner lives while working to transform society. These principles guide many nonviolent justice movements, including Martin Luther King Jr.’s fight for racial equality.
Soulforce is determined to help end oppression against lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer people; determined to help change the minds and hearts of religious leaders whose anti-gay campaigns lead (directly and indirectly) to that oppression; and determined to be guided in our every action by the principles of relentless nonviolent resistance as lived and taught by M.K. Gandhi and Martin Luther King, Jr.. In the process of bringing hope and healing to our society, we find redirection and renewal for ourselves.
Soulforce Strategy
Soulforce is a non-profit organization with administrative offices located in Austin, Texas, under the direction of Jeff Lutes, Executive Director. Soulforce operates as a network of staff and volunteers committed to teaching and applying the principles of nonviolence on behalf of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer people.
Soulforce Approach
Soulforce is educating thousands in the principles of nonviolence through its educational programs and is producing videos and other informational/educational materials, as well as developing and maintaining its comprehensive web site. For over a decade, Soulforce has been tracking the anti-gay rhetoric in television and radio programs, as well as fundraising letters, pamphlets, and other printed material, and responding to it in a number of ways in line with its mission. The very first direct action was in 1999 at Jerry Falwell’s Thomas Road Baptist Church. In 2006, we expanded by launching Soulforce Q – our young adult division.
How Does One ‘Join’ Soulforce?
There is no formal membership. All are warmly invited to participate, regardless of sexual orientation, religious belief, or attitude about sexual orientation and gender-identity. However, we encourage participants to inform us about your own journey as you go through it, since hearing each person’s story strengthens us all. Also, let us know how to get in touch with you so we can keep you informed and invite you to participate in our plans, events, and progress.