SALT LAKE CITY -- On the steps of the Utah State Capitol, people of all ages, faiths, and genders, gathered together in the name of love Saturday.
Tina Escobar Taft helped organize the rally through the Utah Rally for Love, Equality, Family & Acceptance Facebook event page.
"We love each other equally, we love each other wholly," Taft said. "The last thing that needs to be done is division of family."
The rally is in response to the policy change within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints that restricts membership for children of same-sex couples.
Scott K. Fausett was one of many speakers who shared their stories and encouraged the crowd to speak up for equality.
"Those of us who have children and are living in same sex relationships, it’s very difficult on us, it’s very difficult on our children: It’s tearing families apart," Fausett said.
On the phone were also eight plaintiffs from the Supreme Court case on same-sex marriage this past June, so they could share support with the crowd.
"I think the crowd appreciated it, knowing that it’s not just a small issue, that people from around the country--and as big as the plaintiffs in the Supreme Court case--know of their plight and are supporting them,” Fausett said.
Many also marched to the LDS Church headquarters with the hopes that their message will somehow reach LDS Church leaders.
Heather Pierce of Salt Lake City is worried about the potential widespread implications of the LDS Church’s new policy.
"This decision by the church is going to have a really negative impact on everyone," Pierce said. "Not just the LGBT community, not just the city, not just the Mormon Church. I think it’s going to create a ripple effect that will be negative all around."
Kat Mead came from Sandy to show her support.
"Were here to support people being who they are," Mead said. "Being people and not being defined as who they love."
A crowd made up of very different people were all united by a common belief.
FOX 13 reached out the LDS Church, but it declined the opportunity to comment on the rally.
