"If their intent was to engage in that dialogue they had Monday, my question is, why did this (die-in) need to take place?" Jenkins said.

Homosexual conduct is banned by the Honor Code, but gay students can study at BYU if they avoid advocating a gay lifestyle and any behavior that indicates homosexual conduct. The LDS Church teaches that "marriage between a man and a woman is essential to (God's) eternal plan," according to the 1995 church proclamation on the family. It also teaches that sex is only to be between married men and women.

A gay BYU student who didn't participate in the march said he is going to leave the school because he constantly worries he will be disciplined under the Honor Code.

"I'm constantly in fear of doing something that would have some repercussions," said Emil Pohlig, a senior from Draper, Va. "The counselor I spoke to said any implicit or explicit act or show of homosexuality is subject to investigation or review by the Honor Code Office.

"I'm tired of worrying that anything I do, including this interview, may be considered implicit or explicit behavior."

Pohlig said he knows of at least 50 gay or lesbian students at BYU.

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E-mail: twalch@desnews.com