Queer Christians of Yamhill County

04/20/2025

“Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here; he has risen!”
- Luke 24:5-6

08/15/2024

In light of the rising prevalence of anti-LGBTQ+ hate crimes in Newberg and across the county, we want to ensure that our community is informed and empowered to take action if needed. Reporting hate crimes is crucial for the safety of our community and for fostering a climate of understanding and justice. 🌈🕊️

🕵️‍♂️ What is a Hate Crime?

A hate crime is any criminal act that is motivated, in whole or in part, by bias or prejudice against a person's race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or other protected characteristics. This includes, but is not limited to, vandalism, threats, physical assault, and harassment.

🚨 Recent Incidents in Newberg

Recently, Newberg has seen an increase in anti-LGBTQ+ incidents, including vandalism and aggressive harassment. These incidents underscore the need for vigilance and solidarity within our community.

🚫 Steps to Report a Hate Crime

1. Ensure Your Safety

If you are in immediate danger, call 911. Your safety is the top priority.
Document the Incident

2. Collect as much information as possible about the crime.

This includes taking photos of any damage, noting down any threatening messages, and recording the time and date of the incident. If there were witnesses, get their contact information.
Report to Local Law Enforcement

3. Contact the Yamhill County Sheriff’s Office or your local police department.

You can file a report online or in person. Make sure to mention that the crime was motivated by bias or prejudice to ensure it is categorized as a hate crime.
Yamhill County Sheriff’s Office:

Phone: (503) 434-7506
Address: 535 NE 5th St, McMinnville, OR 97128
Newberg-Dundee Police Department:

Phone: (503) 538-8321
Address: 401 E 3rd St, Newberg, OR 97132
Report to Federal Authorities

4. Report to Federal Authorities

Hate crimes can also be reported to the FBI. Visit the FBI’s online Hate Crime Reporting page to submit a tip.

FBI Tip Line:
Phone: 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324)
Online: FBI Tip Submission
Contact Local Support Organizations

4. Reach out to local LGBTQ+ organizations for support and advocacy.
They can offer resources, help with reporting, and provide emotional support.

Local LGBTQ+ Resources:

Newberg PFLAG 🌟
Provides support, education, and advocacy for LGBTQ+ individuals and their families in the Newberg area.
Phone: (503) 538-1187 📞
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.newbergpflag.com

Wine Country Pride 🍷🌈
Serves the LGBTQ+ community in Yamhill County with events, resources, and advocacy.
Phone: (503) 474-9699 📞
Email: [email protected] 📧
Website: https://www.winecountrypride.com

Oregon Safe Schools and Communities Coalition
Focuses on improving the safety of LGBTQ+ students and community members.
Website: Safe Schools Coalition

5. Follow Up

After reporting, stay in touch with law enforcement to track the progress of your case. Ask for a case number and the contact information of the officer handling the report.

6. Seek Support

Experiencing or witnessing a hate crime can be traumatic. Don’t hesitate to seek counseling or support services. Community groups and mental health professionals can help you process and cope with the aftermath.

Other Actions You Can Take

❤️ Join Local Advocacy Groups: Being part of local LGBTQ+ and Christian groups can provide you with additional support and resources.

❤️ Participate in Community Events: Engaging in community events can help foster a sense of solidarity and raise awareness.
By staying informed and proactive, we can work together to address and prevent hate crimes, ensuring a safer and more inclusive community for everyone. If you have any questions or need assistance, please reach out to local organizations or our community leaders. Together, we can make a difference.

08/12/2024

“Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You shut the door of the kingdom of heaven in people’s faces. You yourselves do not enter, nor will you let those enter who are trying to.” - Matthew 23:13

In this verse, Jesus addresses the hypocrisy of those who impose burdens on others while failing to live by the principles of justice and love themselves. For q***r Christians and LGBTQ+ allies, this passage serves as a powerful reminder that God is deeply concerned with how we treat one another. Those who use religion to exclude, judge, or harm others are cautioned that their actions are contrary to the spirit of Christ’s teachings.

Reflect on this: How does this warning from Jesus challenge us to hold accountable those who perpetuate homophobia and exclusion in the name of faith? What steps can we take to ensure that our communities are places of genuine acceptance and love, rather than spaces where people are shut out or marginalized? By striving to embody the inclusive love of Christ, we honor God’s call to embrace everyone and reject actions that contradict His teachings.

08/12/2024

Join us for a safe and fun meetup at on August 18th!

08/12/2024

Sharing your pronouns when you introduce yourself has several benefits.

This , download our worksheet at pflagnation.al/4ch3hTG to better understand why you should include your pronouns in introductions and level up your allyship. 🤝💖

08/05/2024

"Do not be afraid, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine." - Isaiah 43:1

This verse from Isaiah offers a profound reminder of our intrinsic worth and divine belonging. For q***r Christians and LGBTQ+ allies, it speaks to the deep assurance that God sees us, knows us by name, and claims us as cherished members of the divine family. In a world where we often face marginalization or misunderstanding, this promise is a source of great comfort and strength.

Reflect on this: How does knowing that you are called by name and claimed by God shape your understanding of your own identity and faith? In what ways can we extend this affirmation to others, ensuring that our community is one where every person is recognized, celebrated, and loved for who they are? Let’s continue to build a supportive and inclusive space where everyone can experience the fullness of God’s embrace.

08/01/2024

🌈✝️ Dear friends,

As Christians, we are called to embody the love and compassion of Christ in all situations, even when faced with homophobia or transphobia. Remember, Jesus Himself dined with tax collectors and sinners, reaching out to those who needed His love the most (Matthew 9:10-13).

Engaging with those who's eyes are closed ***rchristian can be seen as an opportunity for us to share the message of God's inclusive love. In Matthew 5:44, Jesus teaches us to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us. By engaging respectfully and sharing our stories, we can plant seeds of understanding and compassion.

Just as Paul became "all things to all people" to win them to Christ (1 Corinthians 9:22), we can approach conversations with humility and grace, seeking to build bridges rather than walls. Let us be guided by the words of Proverbs 15:1, "A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger."

Together, let's continue to shine the light of God's love in our interactions, knowing that through our witness, hearts can be changed and minds can be opened to the inclusive message of the Gospel.

Blessings to each of you as we strive to live out our faith boldly and lovingly.

🌈✝️

07/31/2024

https://www.patheos.com/blogs/faithtownsquare/2024/07/why-faith-in-the-town-square-matters/

Almost three years ago now, members of the Proud Boys waved their flags at what amounts to my small town square, a triangle of land near the city center visible to traffic both coming and going.

07/31/2024

07/29/2024