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Claim: Breaking news! The same-sex marriage course is about to be taught at the United Methodist University (UMU), according to Hon. Kelvin.
Verdict: False. The Communication Director at United Methodist University (UMU) dismissed the claim. Jefferson Knight, a ranking member of the United Methodist Church, described it as a smear campaign against the Church. A review of the university’s academic curriculum approved by the Commission on Higher Education found no mention of same-sex marriage courses.
Full Text
A Facebook user, Hon. Kelvin, posted on his official social media page: “Breaking News!!” followed by, “Same-sex Marriage Course is about to be taught at the United Methodist University (UMU).”
His post, dated February 24, 2025, refers to the ongoing global debate regarding same-sex marriage in the United Methodist Church. This claim has sparked significant controversy in Liberia, where the Methodist community remains divided.
According to Hon. Kelvin, UMU has allegedly decided to align with the broader Methodist Church’s position by offering same-sex marriage courses.
The claim comes amid the reported dismissals of pastors and church officials who opposed recent doctrinal shifts. Among them is Bishop Jerry P. Kulah, a vocal critic who was reported on March 2, 2025, after leading public resistance to these changes.
Given the significance of this claim, DUBAWA undertook a fact check to verify its accuracy and provide the public with factual information regarding college education in Liberia, particularly within the Methodist community.
Verification
As sanctioned by the Commission on Higher Education, a review of the UMU academic curriculum (courses) found no mention of courses on same-sex marriage.
Furthermore, DUBAWA contacted school authorities. UMU’s Communication Director, Dr Julie Swen, categorically denied the claim, calling it false and misleading.
“My brother, what would someone gain from lying about something like this?” Swen questioned. “First of all, the Constitution of Liberia and our academic curriculum do not allow same-sex marriage, let alone its teaching in our schools.”
Additionally, Jefferson Knight, Director of Human Rights Monitor and Vice President of the Men’s Organization, Liberia Annual Conference, United Methodist Church, described the claim as a smear campaign designed to tarnish the university’s reputation.
Despite these bold claims, Hon. Kelvin failed to provide any credible evidence to substantiate his allegation.
Conclusion
Based on a thorough review of the UMU academic curriculum and statements from university and church officials, there is no factual basis for the claim that UMU is introducing same-sex marriage courses. This claim is misleading and lacks supportive evidence.
