In March 2013, the Equality House arose in the sleepy neighborhood of Westboro as a symbol of compassion, peace and positive change. The Equality House, or “Rainbow House” as it is also called, became the headquarters for the LGBT advocacy arm of Planting Peace, a nonprofit humanitarian organization founded for the purpose of “spreading peace in a hurting world.” Painted the colors of the Pride flag, the Equality House “serves as a resource for all Planting Peace human rights initiatives and stands as a visual reminder of [the organization’s] commitment, as global citizens, for equality for all.”
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Located across the street from the Westboro Baptist Church, the rainbow house stands in direct opposition – both literally and figuratively – to the church and its fundamentalist practices. The Westboro Baptist Church is widely known for picketing the funerals of U.S. soldiers and spreading antisemitic and homophobic propaganda.
The Equality House champions empowering events, such as the Gay Games, a world-wide sport and cultural event that supports sexual diversity, and spotlights significant issues in LGBT culture, such as marriage equality, violence and employment discrimination. In addition, the rainbow house raises awareness for community issues and supports bullying prevention programs.
Planting Peace focuses its efforts on a range of humanitarian and environmental causes, including a network of orphanages and safe havens in developing countries; a multi-national deworming operation; LGBTQ rights advocacy; the Transgender House; and an Amazon Rainforest conservation campaign.
Visitors are free to explore the property, take pictures and show their pride. Given the season, vegetables in the community garden are always up for grabs – just be sure to pull a weed or two!
Donations are always welcome. Click here to pledge either a monthly or one-time donation. These donations are vital to the Equality House’s mission to spread peace, compassion and understanding. Keep this powerful symbol alive by donating today.
