Justin Utley, singer, storyteller and LGBT activist, will be on Illinois State University’s campus Tuesday, Nov. 12, to facilitate discussions that are free and open to the public.
Utley an “out” ex-Mormon and survivor of ex-gay therapy, will talk about his life and experiences through his inspiring storytelling and powerful, entertaining music.
At noon, he will lead the Safe Zone Brown Bag titled Pray the Gay Away? in the Student Services Building, room 314.
Perspectives on the interpretation of sexual orientation in a religious and spiritual context will be examined as well as how religion influences societal views and norms, and its impact on various groups and subcultures. Previous attendance at a Safe Zone orientation is not required.
That evening at 7 p.m., Utley will present From Mormon to LGBT Activist: A Talk with Justin Utley in the Prairie Room at the Bone Student Center.
The Salt Lake City native began his career as a Mormon-Contemporary singer and songwriter earning numerous awards including best singer and songwriter by Salt Lake City Weekly and best new artist by Indie Review Monthly. Later in his career, Utley decided to publicly break ties with the Mormon Church and became a noted activist and advocate for civil rights and LGBT equality.
Both events are sponsored by Diversity Advocacy.
