On Sunday, a match in the realm of college basketball garnered significant attention, not just for the game’s outcome but also for the wider social implications linked to one of the competing schools. Oak Hills Christian College, a Minnesota-based institution affiliated with the Northern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference and the National Christian College Athletic Association, faced an overwhelming 108-14 defeat against North Dakota State.
The game, which saw Oak Hills trailing with just six points at the halftime break, sparked a broader conversation among basketball enthusiasts, particularly in relation to the college’s stance on LGBT issues. Critics took to social media to highlight a section on the college’s Wikipedia page referring to its policies on LGBT matters. The discussion intensified on various platforms, with some commentators suggesting that the margin of defeat should have been even larger, given the school’s policies.
Russell Steinberg from Boardroom commented online, expressing his view that the school’s defeat could have been more pronounced due to its policies. Similar sentiments were echoed by other fans, with one remarking that their initial sympathy waned after researching the school.
Oak Hills Christian College’s official position on human sexuality and gender identity, detailed on their website, upholds traditional Christian views on marriage and sexual relations. The college defines marriage as a sacred union between a biological man and woman, and deems sexual relations outside this framework as sinful. This stance extends to both heterosexual and homosexual conduct. The college also addresses gender identity, affirming its belief in the creation of two distinct sexes, male and female. It recognizes the challenges posed by variations in gender experience but does not endorse gender identity that contradicts biological sex at birth, nor medical interventions to alter one’s biological sex.
The college emphasizes its commitment to loving all individuals, aligning this love with the teachings of the Bible. It insists on engaging in civil and compassionate dialogues on these matters, reflecting the love of Christ. This approach is rooted in their belief that all humans are created in God’s image and therefore deserve dignity and respect, despite potential disagreements or disciplinary actions that may arise from violations of the school’s community standards. The college’s policies influence its decisions on student admissions, housing, employment, and other institutional matters, as stated on its website.