Lee Rossmaessler and Jess Salisbury
Recorded
July 26, 2023
Archived
July 26, 2023
51:51 minutes
0:00 / 0:00
Id:
osh000023
Description
One Small Step conversation partners Lee Rossmaessler (67) and Jess Salisbury (30) talk about the impact of their religion and LGBTQ lives.Subject Log / Time Code
Lee talks about how family member had seen a story on One Small Step, and it had always stayed with him. Jess talks about how we’re so divided as a country and she feels this is a way to bring us together.
Jess talks about how her dad was and is the most influential person in her life. Lee says his wife has had the biggest influence on him. He calls her funny, wise and says she has made him a better person.
Speaking of political views, Lee says he is more of a moderate, who is often influenced by the person speaking. Jess says she is liberal leaning, concerned about those less fortunate and suffering. She says her religion speaks to her need to help the oppressed.
Lee talks about his religion (Christian). Jesus says to care for the least of those.
Lee talks about he was completely misunderstood during a time he worked as a school principal working with at risk youth. Others thought because he was Christian he was conservative.
Speaking of being criticized by people with similar beliefs, Jess who is queer says there is an us vs them mentality within her community. She feels those on the left should less judgmental themselves and show more grace.
Lee talks about his apprehension regarding an upcoming visit with old friends who may have the same political views they had 45 years ago.
Lee talks about his reluctance to interact with LGBTQ folks is due mostly to his uncertainty of the correct use of pronouns. This is a area of confusion for him.
Lee discusses his concern for his daughter in law who is on a school board and feels threatened by divisiveness.
Jess speaks about her concern for LGBTQ rights and the rights of her wife who is black. She also speaks of their concerns regarding access to health care.
Lee talks about reading Jess’ bio and being concerned with interacting with a LGBTQ person.
Participants
- Lee Rossmaessler
- Jess Salisbury