"God does not discriminate," says Roula Alkhouri, a Presbyterian minister in Bend. "Equality means everybody is created equal."

Alkhouri has both personal and professional reasons for being involved in the fight for equality for all Oregonians. As a faith leader, she feels she has been called to do justice work. "I know God loves everyone," she says. "I want to make sure people do not get mistreated."

She also cites her experience as a woman and an immigrant – she moved to the U.S. from Syria as a young adult - as key factors in her work for equality. "I've been on the receiving end of discrimination and inequality." She wants to help create a world in which her young daughter won't encounter discrimination.

"I've come a long way in my personal journey to understand that lesbian and gay people are God's children," says Alkhouri. "In Syria, people pretend that homosexuality doesn't exist. My friends in the U.S. have taught me a lot."

Alkhouri is frustrated by the split in the Presbyterian Church over ordaining gay and lesbian ministers. "When you have people within your own denomination [in favor of discrimination], it is hard to be loving," she says. "I always challenge people. I ask them, 'Do you really know these other people you think are unworthy?'"

One of Alkhouri's colleagues from seminary school got caught up in the maelstrom about ordaining gays and lesbians. He came out in his church and was accepted and ordained. Then another Presbyterian church sued the presbytery for ordaining him. Even though the plaintiff didn't win, it was a painful experience for Alkhouri's friend. "It shows that the issue is about prejudice, not about the Bible and faith," she says.

"Fighting for equality is about solidarity, whether or not it's my issue. Because when it is my issue, they'll stand with me."