Stephen Sprinkle
Unfinished Lives: Reviving the Memories of LGBTQ Hate Crimes Victims by Rev. Stephen V. Sprinkle has been awarded the national silver medal from the Independent Book Awards for outstanding excellence in Gay/Lesbian Non-Fiction. The award is known as the IPPY.
Sprinkle teaches at Brite Divinity School in Fort Worth and was promoted last month to professor of practical theology and director of field education and supervised ministry. He has been at the school since 1994 and held the position of associate professor before his recent promotion. He was involved in the reaction to the Rainbow Lounge raid and is featured in the film Raid of the Rainbow Lounge. He is a frequent speaker at Cathedral of Hope.
In his book Unfinished Lives, Sprinkle tells the stories of 14 LGBTQ hate crimes murder victims throughout the U.S. More than 13,000 women, men and youth who have lost their lives to unreasoning hatred since 1980.
“I set out to change the conversation on hate crimes in this country, to put a human face on the outrage of homophobia and transphobia robbing us of so many so brutally,” Sprinkle said.
Well done! Your book deserves far more than the IPPY. Also whose the random due texting in the photo?
David, this pic was taken at the protest at the Tarrant County Court Building after the Rainbow Lounge raid. Of all the pictures I had of Steve speaking at a variety of events, this is one taken at an event I mentioned in the post. And Teri, I think they do. I’ve only heard raves about him from other people at Brite and TCU and he talks about all the support he’s gotten over the years, even when taking a controversial position.
And one thing I forgot to mention in my post: I love this book. Much of it is difficult to read because of Steve’s descriptions of the raw hatred, but it’s well worth it. And it makes a great gift to your favorite pastor, relative or coworker who “hates the sinner but loves the sinner.” The book describes a number of murders that resulted from just that kind of “love.”
Steve, how wonderful to be recognized with the award & promotion. You changed & influenced a lot of folks. You made a difference and will continue to do so. I hope Brite realizes how fortunate they are/we are to have you as part of our lives. Blessings my brother with love and prayers.