Church Lodges Discrimination Complaint Against Wyoming Food Bank Over Partnership Termination

In a recent development, the Foundations For Nations Church, located on the Wind River Indian Reservation but operating a food pantry in Riverton, has lodged a federal discrimination complaint against the Food Bank of Wyoming. The complaint, filed by the Florida-based Liberty Counsel, alleges that the food bank unlawfully terminated its partnership with the church’s food pantry due to religious, political, and racial discrimination.

The partnership, which had been active for years, involved the Food Bank of Wyoming supplying food to the church’s pantry. This supply chain was reportedly halted on July 7, following a controversial sermon by Pastor Sarah Lucas. The church claims that the termination was a response to a call claiming the sermon was discriminatory, despite Lucas’s assertion that her pulpit statements are protected under freedom of speech and religion.

According to the complaint, the Food Bank of Wyoming informed the church that the partnership was placed “on hold” on July 27. The Liberty Counsel has filed a complaint with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), citing that the termination violates the USDA’s non-discrimination requirements, as the food bank receives federal resources through various programs.

The complaint also suggests that the termination may constitute discrimination based on race, color, national origin, political beliefs, and religion. In response to the termination, the church has been collaborating with the community to ensure the continued availability of food through mobile pantries. The Liberty Counsel has also filed a complaint with the Wyoming Department of Family Services.

This situation highlights the complex interplay between religious expression and anti-discrimination policies, echoing themes of justice and neighbor-love found in biblical teachings, such as Matthew 25:35, which emphasizes serving those in need.

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