QLD Christian School Withdraws Anti-LGBTIQ Contract The Same Day Investigation Starts
“We deeply regret that some students feel that they would be discriminated against because of their sexuality or gender identity."
Citipointe Christian College has revoked its anti-LGBTIQ student enrolment contract after days of backlash from the community, and an investigation by a Queensland education body.
The contract asserted that homosexuality and bisexuality are “destructive to relationships and society”.
“We believe that any form of sexual immorality (including but not limited to adultery, fornication, homosexual acts, bisexual acts, bestiality, incest, paedophilia, and pornography) is sinful and offensive to God and is destructive to relationships and society,” the contract read.
In a statement issued on Thursday morning, the school withdrew the contract and expressed regret for any harm caused.
“Citipointe Christian College has today withdrawn the Enrolment Contract issued to families on Friday 28 January,” the statement read. “Families will no longer be asked to agree to that contract for their child to be enrolled in the college.”
Principal Brian Mulheran — who doubled down on the contract earlier this week in a video stressing that the contract is based on the school’s “Christian ethos” — has since apologised.
“We deeply regret that some students feel that they would be discriminated against because of their sexuality or gender identity, and I apologise to them and their families on behalf of the College,” said Pastor Mulheran.
“As stated previously, the College does not and will not discriminate against any student because of their sexuality or gender identity. It is central to our faith that being gay or transgender in no way diminishes a person’s humanity or dignity in God’s eyes.
“It is also deeply distressing that some of our students have been vilified in the community simply for their religious beliefs or because they attend the College.
“I hope that by withdrawing the contract we can return all of our focus to the Christian education of our students as we begin this new year.
“Every individual is created equal in the image of God and should be treated with compassion, love, kindness, respect, and dignity. This will continue to be at the heart of our College and help us to come together again as a community.
“Our society gives freedom to people to be a part of groups with shared beliefs. Citipointe has the freedom to maintain its Christian ethos and this is an essential part of Christian education and choice for parents. As a College established for religious purposes, we will continue to provide an education based on our shared beliefs.
“I would also like to thank our families, students and staff who have continued to support
us.”
The statement comes on the same day that the first review into the school by the Non-State Schools Accreditation Board — which receives $13 million of government funding annually — is due to begin.