Citipointe Christian College’s ‘expression of regret’ over alleged homosexual discrimination
A Brisbane Christian College has issued a statement and reached a settlement with parents over a controversial contract that allegedly labelled homosexuality a sin.
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A Brisbane Christian College has issued a statement and reached a settlement with parents over allegations it discriminated against gay and transgender students.
Citipointe Christian College has issued an “expression of regret” over a controversial contract it issued in 2022 allegedly labelling homosexuality a sin.
The enrolment contract was issued to parents and guardians of children of the college on January 28, 2022 and contained statements from the Christian Outreach Centre’s ‘Declaration of Faith’ document that described homosexuality as “sinful and offensive to God” and “destructive to human relationships and society”.
The contract was sent out by then Principal, Pastor Brian Mulheran.
After significant feedback from the community, the enrolment contract was withdrawn by the college on February 3, 2022 with Pastor Mulheran resigning as principal on March 31, 2022.
A group of parents of students at the school took offence to the contract and commenced action under the Anti-Discrimination Act 1991 of Queensland.
On Sunday, the school issued an ‘expression of regret’ and announced that a settlement had been reached with the impacted parents.
“The enrolment contract contained statements on gender and sexuality which were drawn from the Christian Outreach Centre’s Declaration of Faith,” the statement read.
“However, the Christian Outreach Centre and the College acknowledge, on reflection, that those statements were distressing to members and allies of the LGBTIQA+ community.
“Subsequently, a small group of parents took action under the Anti-Discrimination Act 1991 (Qld).
“The complaints have been resolved by agreement after settlement discussions.”
In the statement, the college acknowledged that the contract caused distress to “some students and parents”. .
“It is acknowledged that the issuance of the enrolment contract, coupled with a request for the prompt execution and return, caused distress and concern to some students and parents,” the statement read.
“We regret any distress or concern which was caused to students, parents and guardians of students or prospective students of the college, which includes those within the college community that are members of the LGBTIQA+ community, and their families and their allies, as a result of the issuance of the enrolment contract in January of 2022.”
According to the college, the agreement shows its commitment to anti-discrimination and its support of inclusion.
“The college acknowledges it has an important role in educating its staff and students in the importance of being inclusive,” the statement read.
“The college is committed to the continued education of its staff and students on how to be respectful and to value all people, regardless of race, religion, sex, age, disability or sexual orientation or gender identity.
“While the College has anti-discrimination policies and training in place, it is committed to continually reviewing and, if necessary, strengthening those policies and training.
“Christian Outreach Centre and the College recognises that all persons have a right to be treated with respect and all students deserve to feel safe and respected.
“We will move forward in encouraging our students to achieve their personal best and to contribute to the common good.”
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