The International Imperial Court System, an organization dedicated to charitable work and advocacy for the LGBTQ community, has honored Christ Church-Tacoma with the Jose Julio Sarria Civil Rights Award. Jose Sarria, a gay man and the founder of the Imperial Court System, was a leader in the gay and lesbian struggle for civil rights that began in the 1960’s.
AIDS Housing Association of Tacoma (AHAT) was founded in 1989 at the height of the AIDS crisis. When the AIDS crisis emerged and people with AIDS were shunned by their families, refused treatment by doctors and hospitals, rejected by churches, and even refused burial by funeral homes. Christ Church of Tacoma was instrumental in the founding of AHAT – Three Cedars House, a residence for persons living with HIV/AIDS. People living with HIV/AIDS are some of the most vulnerable among the homeless population.
In 2016, the organization took on a new name, AHAT Homecare, and expanded their programming to include Hepatitis C. With the addition of two additional homes, they help their clients connect to health care, manage their medications, and build skills to live independently.
With ongoing support from Christ Church, AHAT will be celebrating its 30th Anniversary on May 8, 2019.
I am delighted to read that Christ Church, Tacoma, has received an award as a recognition for its history of providing ministry of welcome and relief for those suffering from AIDS. I am especially pleased to see this congregation’s commitment to justice and affirmation to those who might be shunned or relegated to the margins of our society.
It was my joy to serve Christ Church as associate priest/campus ministry chaplain in the early 1970’s. I am honored to have been part of its history.