Richard Raddon and Film Independent (FIND), the festival's parent org, have faced a barrage of protests over Raddon's private contribution to the successful Yes on Prop. 8 campaign that banned same-sex marriage in California.

On Tuesday, Film Independent issued a statement saying, "With great reluctance, Film Independent has accepted Richard Raddon's resignation. Rich's service to the independent film community and to Film Independent has been nothing less than extraordinary. He has always shown complete commitment to our core principles of equality and diversity during his long tenure."

Raddon, a devout Mormon who took the reins of the fest in 2000, said: "I have always held the belief that all people, no matter race, religion or sexual orientation, are entitled to equal rights. I prefer to keep the details around my contribution through my church a private matter. But I am profoundly sorry for the negative attention that my actions have drawn to Film Independent and for the hurt and pain that is being experienced in the GLBT community."

Film Independent has not yet picked a replacement for Raddon.