Side B Christians are Christians who identify as LGBT or have LGBTQ+ experiences, but take a traditional view of human sexuality and thus commit to celibacy or a mixed-orientation marriage. [1] [2] [3] The term Side B derives from an Internet forum where Side A Christians, with an affirming view of LGBT sexuality, were contrasted with Side B Christians. Prominent Side B Christians include Eve Tushnet, a lesbian Catholic based in Washington, DC, and Bekah Mason, executive director of Revoice. [4] [5] In particular, Side B Christians reject conversion therapy. [6] [7] Side B is also distinct from Side Y, which does not affirm LGBT identification.
The distinction between Side A and Side B first took place as part of the Gay Christian Network, founded by Justin Lee. [8] [9] Some make additional distinctions, including Side X, representing ex-gay Christians. [10] In 2018, Revoice was launched as a conference for Christians predominantly identifying as Side B. [11] Much of the movement of celibate LGBT Christians has its origins in the US evangelical movement. [12]
