(The paragraph/picture above is part of an editorial called "Christmas Corruption", I wrote for submission to the Yahara River Writers' Contest. This petition was submitted to Change.org by my Mom, because I'm "not old enough." Thanks for reading. -- Hannah)

JC Penney has been on the cutting edge in promoting equality for everyone in the LGBT community. For example, Ellen DeGeneres is their spokesperson. They have featured same-sex parents in their media ad campaigns. They make me proud to shop at their stores.

Except now, JCP has decided to endorse the anti-gay organization, The Salvation Army, as their charitable organization through 12/31/12. The Salvation Army has a long ugly history of creating anti-gay policies of discrimination. As recently as June 2012, a Salvation Army official implied that gays should be put to death.

JC Penney webpage message below:

"The jcp Holiday Giving Tour builds on jcpenney's philanthropic efforts this season. Through its charitable giving program, jcp cares, jcpenney is making it possible for customers to give back. From Nov. 23 to Dec. 31, customers can support The Salvation Army by rounding up their store purchases to the nearest dollar and donating the difference to the organization's Red Kettle Campaign. With nearly 25,000 bell ringers at store fronts and shopping malls nationwide, this annual campaign helps to provide meals, clothing and toys to families who need it most. The Salvation Army's iconic red kettle is featured as one of jcpenney's button designs to signify the importance of their mission in communities across the country."

JC Penney, we beseech you to discontinue your support for the Salvation Army's long history of discrimination and hatred towards gays. Please do your research, and right this wrong immediately.