Solidarity Stole (First Presbyterian)

(Note: A solidarity stole is one that is covered with the signatures of both gay and straight members of a congregation, denominational governing body, or other organization.  These stoles serve the dual purpose of showing support for LGBT persons, while also protecting their anonymity by including their names as "one among many".)

This is one of about thirty stoles donated to the collection by First Presbyterian Church of Palo Alto.  First Palo Alto, a More Light congregation, has for decades been on the forefront of the movement for full inclusion of LGBT persons into the life and leadership of the church and greater society.  Among the many leaders of the movement who have come from this congregation is Mitzi Henderson, former national President of PFLAG and national Co-Moderator of More Light Presbyterians, whose signature is on this stole.

Martha Juillerat

Founder, Shower of Stoles Project

2006