Soulforced bussing

Soulforce, a religious group made up mostly of gays and lesbians, is coming to town again this week -- this time to draw attention the U.S. Air Force Academy's "don't ask, don't tell" policy.

The group, which picketed Focus on the Family last year, is sponsoring a bus trip across the United States called the "Equality Ride," stopping at 19 colleges and universities it says discriminate against gays and lesbians. Thirty-three young adults are taking part in the ride, participating in rallies, non-violent confrontations and Bible studies.

The Air Force Academy qualifies as a stop because of the U.S. military's "don't ask, don't tell" policy: Gay and lesbian cadets could be kicked out of school if their sexual preferences are revealed. Because of the AFA's restrictions on protesters, Equality Ride participants plan to keep their appearance pretty low-key, engaging students on campus in conversation. Essentially, they'll be asking cadets "would you serve with me?"

The bus rolls into town April 13, where participants will take part in a 7 p.m. community meeting at All Souls Unitarian-Universalist Church downtown, 730 N. Tejon St. A press conference will be held outside the AFA's north gate at 10:30 a.m. April 14, after which the participants will enter the campus.