COVID-19 survivor, LGBTQ Bishop O.C. Allen III reacts to Kemp order

From LIVING OUT LOUD 2.0 by Darian Aaron

Bishop O.C. Allen III, Senior Pastor of The Vision Cathedral of Atlanta, a Black LGBTQ affirming church in Atlanta, Georgia is responding to Gov. Brian Kemp's (R-GA) decision to reopen some essential businesses in the state as early as Friday, despite admitting that an increase of COVID-19 cases is likely.

Allen released the statement to his congregants on Facebook on Tuesday evening:

"In response to Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp’s plan to open up certain businesses Friday and additional entities statewide next Monday, I believe this is too soon. I am asking that we as a family, Vision Cathedral ATL remain diligent and consistent with the current guidelines given by our Mayor and the CDC. Most scientists and public health experts believe that Georgia has not yet even reached it’s peak regarding the Coronavirus and that to reopen public spaces is a risk made too soon. The science suggests that this can possibly result in a resurgence of infection.

As someone who is still physically recovering from the severity of a COVID-19 diagnosis on March 24th, I am deeply aware of the impact this is having on our lives. Because of my personal experience with this pandemic, I will strive to exercise profound wisdom and extreme caution to protect our church and the families connected to it. I look forward to seeing your beautiful faces and worshipping in-person with you again! Until then, stay well, healthy and safe. Vision will continue to stream our services and provide online engagement until further notice. Continue to watch, engage and share all of our Vision online services and discussions. And please continue to support or church.

The economy is not more important than our own lives.

There is no economy without people."

Bishop Oliver Clyde Allen III

The Vision Cathedral of Atlanta

Allen isn't the only prominent figure in Atlanta who has publicly stated his opposition to Kemp's decision to reopen some businesses in Georgia. Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms (D-GA) and former Georgia Gubernatorial candidate and short-list candidate for Vice President of The United States, Stacey Abrams (D-GA) has also come out strongly against the decision.

Read more about Bishop O.C. Allen III and his ministry in a piece we wrote for The Georgia Voice.