My hope is that ISKCON's new constitution will contain clear, carefully worded non-discrimination clauses to protect women and minorities. As president of GALVA (The Gay and Lesbian Vaishnava Association), my particular concern is with GLBTI-embodied devotees and temple guests.(1)

We have already witnessed regrettable discrimination against women in our society's recent history and there should be no doubt that various minority groups experience similar types of discrimination.(2) Such unfair bodily prejudice, when it occurs, can be damaging not only to the individual involved but also to our movement's image and ISKCON as a whole. The purpose of this plea is not to instate anything new but rather to maintain Srila Prabhupada's original mood of all-inclusiveness, bodily transcendence and fairness to every member of ISKCON.

This plea does NOT involve changing Srila Prabhupada's standards or definition of illicit sex. Nor does it involve a demand for "across-the-board" equal rights for things such as gay marriage. It is simply a request that GLBTI devotees--following all the rules and regulations of spiritual life--be treated fairly according to Srila Prabhupada's vision and example. Similarly, GLBTI devotees and guests who fall short of the standards are to be treated just as other devotees who fall short are.

Any GLBTI devotee who strictly follows the rules and regulations set by Srila Prabhupada should be allowed to engage in all basic temple activities and receive privileges for which they qualify, just like anyone else.(3) There should be no doubt Srila Prabhupada set this example with his GLBTI disciples. Similarly, GLBTI devotees and guests who fall short of the standards should nevertheless be warmly invited to participate in other various ways while living outside the temple, just as Srila Prabhupada exemplified through his dealings with his fallen GBLTI disciples, or with friends and guests such as Allen Ginsberg.

I applaud the GBC's efforts to correct discrimination against women but there are various minority groups whose grievances have yet to be addressed. At any given ISKCON center, for example, a GLBTI devotee or guest may be warmly welcomed, greeted coldly or even told in no uncertain terms to leave--simply because of their material body-type. There are many examples of this and ISKCON offers no explicit, uniform protections and guidelines in this regard. In my work with GALVA, I receive frequent complaints of discrimination and in many cases members join non-ISKCON groups because they are perceived, correctly or not, as more inclusive. One ISKCON website in particular even warns gay-embodied applicants not to bother applying for ashrama membership because they will be rejected automatically! I worry about the type of message this sends not only to new bhaktas but also to the community at large. If nothing else, it demonstrates the need for uniform standards facilitated through clear and specific non-discrimination clauses in our ISKCON Constitution.(4)

I pray to Srila Prabhupada and Krsna that anti-discrimination protections for women and all minorities will be included in the new ISKCON Constitution, set forth by good leadership. Even a few strong statements in this regard will work wonders and help remind everyone of our most basic philosophy:

"One who has knowledge of the soul and how the soul transmigrates from one body to another does not pay attention to the body, which is nothing but a covering dress. 'Panditah sama-darsinah.' Such a person sees the soul, which is part and parcel of the Supreme Lord. Therefore he is a 'sama-darsi,' a learned person." ("Srimad Bhagavatam" 9.1.33, purport)

If my plea seems like overstating the obvious, you may be surprised. Many devotees, both new and old, require constant reminders and steadfast guidelines in this regard.

Notes

(1) - GLBTI = Gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, intersexed. I personally prefer the umbrella term "third-gender" but defer to those who have problems with it.

(2) - While the main subject matter of this article concentrates on eliminating discrimination against gender minorities (GLBTI persons), I encourage all minorities to speak up and express their own interest in this regard.

(3) - These would include basic temple activities and privileges such as living in the ashrama, taking initiation, performing "seva," cooking, worshiping the Deity, leading kirtana, giving Bhagavatam class, assuming administrative roles, receiving standard benefits, and so on.

(4) - I stress the words "clear" and "specific." History has shown that general non-discrimination clauses without specifically-named classes are ineffective and ignored at whim. The classes I would specifically suggest for protection are historically the most discriminated against and listed below:

• Women
• Gender Minorities (GLBTI persons)
• Race (Blacks, Asians, Native Americans, etc.)
• Nationality (Indian, Mexican, Iranian, etc.)
• Ethnicity (Hispanic, Jewish, Arab, Gypsy, etc.)
• Religion (previous for devotees; current for guests)
• Caste/Class (mundane birth, wealth, family occupation, etc.)
• Disability (according to written/legal guidelines)

The following statements issued by the ISKCON Governing Body Commission regarding "illicit sex" nicely express the Gay and Lesbian Vaishnava Association's (GALVA's) exact same position:

The GBC Body wishes to clarify that according to Srila Prabhupada's teachings, sex life according to religious principles followed by Gaudiya Vaishnavas is for the propagation of children, not for any other purpose, and that the responsibility of the parents is then to make their offspring Krishna conscious. As stated in the Fifth Canto of Srimad Bhagavatam, "Sex is allowed only for the begetting of children, not for enjoyment. One can indulge in sex to beget a good child for the benefit of the family, society and world. Otherwise, sex is against the rules and regulations of religious life." (SB 5.14.9)

While Srila Prabhupada's definition of illicit sex is clear, it is also clear that some devotees have difficulty maintaining this initiation vow. The GBC recognizes this, and suggests that rather than trying to adjust Srila Prabhupada's definition we should go on with devotional service and humbly and sincerely keep endeavoring to reach the proper standard. In this regard, Srila Prabhupada writes, "In the beginning of Krishna consciousness, one may not fully discharge the injunctions of the Lord, but because one is not resentful of this principle and works sincerely without consideration of defeat and hopelessness, he will surely be promoted to the stage of pure Krishna consciousness." (BG 3.32, purport)

It is also said in Srimad Bhagavatam 11.20.27-28, "Having awakened faith in the narrations of My glory, being disgusted with all material activities, knowing that all sense gratification leads to misery, but being unable to renounce all sense enjoyment, My devotee should remain happy and worship Me with great faith and conviction. Even though he is sometimes engaged in sense enjoyment, My devotee knows that all sense gratification leads to a miserable result, and he sincerely repents such activities."

(ISKCON GBC Resolution 303, Annual Meeting in Mayapura, India, 2/7-19/2001)

Sexuality is problematic in Vaishnavism since achieving liberation requires the abandonment of all material desires and attachments. While the above standard of "sex for procreation only" may seem extreme or even impossible to many aspiring devotees, it should not be taken as a cause for discouragement. In Krsna consciousness and "daiva-varnasrama" in general, there is a place for everyone whether they are renounced, fallen, or anywhere in between, and it is recognized that some devotees will be able to adopt the above standard immediately whereas others attain it gradually after years of devotional practice and purification.

GALVA has always encouraged its members to engage in devotional service and renounce material desires as far as possible, according to their ability and nature. This is best executed from either a celibate status or in something analogous to a heterosexual monogamous situation. While many of our members practice strict celibacy, others find the latter situation more helpful and realistic for their advancement in Krsna consciousness. Same-sex couples centering their household on Krsna and practicing celibacy together surely fall in line with the above-mentioned standard. Similarly, any couple--gay or straight--having sex for purposes other than procreation is considered in breach of the standard. Nevertheless, as mentioned above, such persons should continue in their service to Krsna despite "not fully discharging the injunctions of the Lord" or "sometimes engaging in sense enjoyment." By keeping the ultimate goal of complete renunciation in mind and continuing on with devotional service to the best of their ability, the sincere couple will gradually be promoted to the stage of pure Krsna consciousness.

GALVA believes that householder life and marriage are crucial components of Krsna consciousness that should not be denied to anyone. In the Seventh Chapter of his book, "Jaiva Dharma," Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakura states that all living entities have the right to practice Vaishnavism and live as householders, even if they are outside of the ordinary "varnasrama" system. He also describes how marriage is primarily for Krsna conscious partnership: "One should not enter marriage with a desire to beget children, or to worship the forefathers and Prajapatis. It is favorable to bhakti to think, 'I am only accepting this servant of Krsna so that we can assist each other in Krsna's service and establish Krsna-centered family life together.'" Bodily considerations such as gender or whether or not a couple will have children and sex are less important than the two principles stated above. In ISKCON, for example, people who are sterile or beyond childbearing age are not prohibited from marriage, and neither are marriages terminated if they are childless or less than ideal in terms of sex. GALVA believes that the same understanding and tolerance should be extended toward gay and lesbian devotees--their need for marital companionship in Krsna consciousness should be recognized and they can adopt children, etc. This will be more helpful to their spiritual advancement than excluding them from marriage, encouraging artificial renunciation, or forcing them into unhappy and unnatural opposite-sex marital arrangements. As the same-sex couple matures both physically and spiritually they can gradually transcend all mundane sexuality and attachment, just as other couples do.

GALVA acknowledges the reservations some devotees have about same-sex marriage based upon Srila Prabhupada's initial reaction to the subject in the 1970s. At the same time, it should be pointed out that Srila Prabhupada never discussed this issue in any detail with his gay and lesbian disciples. We are reminded of when Srila Prabhupada first told his disciples to chant sixty-four rounds daily, but then later amended this to sixteen after listening to their feedback; or when he first granted brahminical initiation to men only, but then changed his mind and agreed to include women after hearing the pleas of his female disciples. GALVA hopes the Vaishnava community will similarly consider same-sex marriage carefully, on a personal level, and do what is best. There are also local considerations of custom and law. In some countries, temples find it needful to acknowledge same-sex unions, at least on a congregational level, whereas in others they are obliged to deny them. Similarly, some Gaudiya Vaishnava groups are favorable to same-sex marriage while others remain opposed or undecided. GALVA therefore advises its members requiring same-sex marriage and householder life to seek out the most conducive environment and Vaishnava support possible.

Below are a few guidelines compiled by GALVA to help our members in their cultivation of Krsna consciousness and renunciation:

*1. Find Your Place*: Everyone has a place in Krsna consciousness and finding the most conducive environment for spiritual life is very important. For some, this may involve living in the temple as a celibate and doing full time devotional service; for others, it may be within a marital situation outside the temple, owning a home, raising a family, going to work, etc. In any case, the cultivation of bhakti and renunciation is best executed from a position where one is most peaceful, happily engaged, and surrounded by supportive friends and well-wishers.

*2. Stress the Positive*: In Krsna consciousness, there are both positive instructions (chanting, studying scripture, associating with devotees, etc.) and negative ones (refraining from meat-eating, gambling, intoxication, illicit sex, and so on). While both are important, the positive instructions should always be given precedence over the negative. For instance, people should begin hearing and chanting about Krsna even if they cannot follow all of the prohibitions. It is not that one must first give up all bad habits, and then after that he or she may begin Krsna consciousness. Rather, by immediately adopting the positive practices of bhakti-yoga, a person will gradually become inspired to follow the various prohibitions.

*3. Keep Balanced*: Srila Rupa Goswami advises us to neither over-emphasize nor neglect the various rules and regulations of spiritual life. Religious fundamentalists ("smarta-brahmanas") overstress scriptural regulations and indiscriminately impose them in a harsh manner that is dispiriting to others. Religious sentimentalists, on the other hand (known as "sahajiyas"), casually neglect or omit the various rules and regulations to their own spiritual detriment. In reality, there must be a fine balance between these two extremes. Regulations should be adopted when they are helpful and realistic, but rejected when they are counterproductive or unrealistic.

*4. Seek Proper Guidance*: GALVA cautions its members to avoid the fundamentalist and "sahajiya" types of devotees mentioned above. In particular, fundamentalists are often hateful toward gays and their bad association can be very discouraging in spiritual life. Members should instead seek out the thoughtful, pure-hearted souls who view everyone equally and are expert at engaging all types of people in Krsna consciousness. Such good and inspiring association is the most important secret for achieving spiritual success.

*5. Be Honest*: Honesty and straightforwardness are important Vaishnava principles that everyone should adhere to. Devotees should be truthful about who they are and where they stand spiritually. GALVA advises its members to be straightforward about their psychophysical selves as gay, bisexual, or whatever. They should not lie about this or pretend to be something they are not. If a person is dishonest and pretentious in spiritual life, all sorts of problems and obstacles will ensue: "O what a tangled web we weave, when first we practice to deceive!"

*6. Know Where You Stand*: Devotees should truthfully assess their own capabilities in terms of renunciation and move forward from there. Srila Prabhupada often stated that it is better to be an honest sweeper in the street than a highly positioned charlatan or hypocrite. It is not possible to make progress in Krsna consciousness if we do not confront our actual position and deal with it realistically. In this regard, Swami B.V. Tripurari has stated: " 'Daiva-varnasrama' refers to the importance of situating devotees in consideration of their psychological and physiological makeup so that they can gradually tread the topmost path of pure bhakti by eliminating the danger of artificial renunciation. False renunciation ('phalgu vairagya') involves not only artificially leaving one's family, but more so, being out of touch with the reality of one's material identity. One thereby ignores or denies much that one has to work through to attain freedom from the karmic realm and develop love of God. False renunciation does not mean to merely artificially accept a renounced formal posture. It involves misunderstanding one's actual standing in bhakti and avoiding the difficult task of dealing with one's material responsibilities and shortcomings through appropriate means, even when those means appear to be outside of the realm of bhakti proper."

*7. Never Offend Others*: In our practice of Krsna consciousness and renunciation it is important never to offend other living entities. In particular, offending fellow Vaishnavas is the foremost of all prohibitions and is even more detrimental to one's spiritual life than engaging in "illicit sex" or other restrictions. Sometimes it is seen that devotees become agitated due to false renunciation and, obsessed with the behavior of others, continuously criticize and offend them. Such a demeanor is highly detrimental in spiritual life and needs to be checked immediately. Devotees should peacefully focus on their own bhakti alone and learn to see only the good qualities in others.

*8. Remain Humble and Hopeful*: Devotees should always remain humble and hopeful that they will one day attain Krsna's mercy despite their shortcomings. Srila Rupa Goswami expresses this attitude in the following prayer: "I have no love for Krsna, nor for the causes of developing love of Krsna--namely, hearing and chanting. And the process of bhakti-yoga, by which one is always thinking of Krsna and fixing His lotus feet in the heart, is also lacking in me. As far as philosophical knowledge or pious works are concerned, I don't see any opportunity for me to execute such activities. But above all, I am not even born of a nice family. Therefore I must pray to You, Gopijana-vallabha. I simply wish and hope that some way or other I may be able to approach Your lotus feet, and this hope is giving me pain, because I think myself quite incompetent to approach that transcendental goal of life." ("The Nectar of Devotion," p. 137)

"GALVA's Position On 'Illicit Sex' and Renunciation"
www.galva108.org/galvaposition.html

For those of you who may not know me, my name is Amara dasa. I was first and second initiated by Srila Prabhupada in the 1970s and have been a member of ISKCON since 1974. For the past six years, I have been preaching to the gay and lesbian community and by Srila Prabhupada ’s mercy it has been somewhat successful. I would like to offer a few tips for those of you who may be interested in extending Lord Caitanya ’s mercy to this gentle and talented segment of our society.

First of all, it is very important to preach in a friendly and relevant fashion. For instance, if we are preaching to a farmer we can explain how Krsna is a cowherd boy, or if we are preaching to a musician we can mention Krsna ’s expert flute playing. Regarding gay and lesbian people, I find it helpful to tell them about Srila Prabhupada ’s warm relationship with Allen Ginsberg and how third-gender dancers blessed Lord Caitanya when He was a baby. Most gay people are familiar with the third gender of India and become pleased to hear how gender-variant people were welcomed into Jagannatha Misra ’s courtyard, invited to dance, chant Hare Krsna and bless the newborn child, Nimai. Srila Prabhupada relates this positive portrayal of the third gender very nicely in a conversation with Hayagriva dasa ( “Outline of Lord Caitanya Play ” #67-002). The third gender of India has been well studied in recent years and several books have been written and documentaries produced on the topic. Many people are very interested to hear Srila Prabhupada ’s positive and inclusive portrayal of the Vedic third gender. *

In regard to preaching renunciation, there is no need to treat gay people any differently. I always tell everyone that celibacy is preferred and faithful marriage comes second, but even if a person is completely fallen they can still chant Hare Krishna, visit the temple and associate with devotees. Nowadays many gays are in committed, legally recognized unions and may visit the temple as such, particularly in the West. In this regard I like to remind devotees how Allen Ginsberg and his lover, Peter Orlovsky, would go to meet Srila Prabhupada together and were warmly received by him. Although Srila Prabhupada did not approve of their homosexual relationship, especially in those days, he nevertheless heartily received them like a perfect gentleman and did not try to assault them with the philosophy. This is a good example for all devotees to follow. If Srila Prabhupada, an elderly gentleman from conservative India, could display such appropriate social protocol then this should not be difficult for modern-day Indian and Western devotees.

Most gay people are socially aware and believe that everyone should be viewed according to their personal character and not by body-type. Therefore it is best not to tell them things like “women are less intelligent, ” “Blacks are prone to thievery, ” “homosexuals are demons, ” etc., as these types of statements will only drive them away from Krishna. Surprisingly enough, I often receive complaints from guests that have been barraged with this type of so-called preaching. If a devotee is condescending toward gay people and unable to preach to them in a friendly manner, it is really better for them to preach elsewhere. There is no use in such ineffective preaching as this will not be pleasing to Krsna.

Finally, I am always careful about which temples I invite gay and lesbian guests to visit because it is very important that they have a friendly, positive experience. If a temple, temple president or resident sannyasi has a bad reputation for being unfriendly or hostile toward gays I will not recommend such a temple. In many cases I will advise gay guests to seek out the friendly devotees and avoid the unfriendly ones, but I prefer recommending temples that I know will be welcoming regardless of class or body-type, just as Srila Prabhupada was.

I pray to Krsna that this article will help devotees increase their loving, preaching mood and extend their hearts toward the gay and lesbian community.