Inclusive and Affirming Ministries

Uniting Voices for Equality "Stand Together in Solidarity" brings you 12 powerful stories from religious lesbians and gays across the globe. These inspiring testimonies highlight the intersection of faith, identity, and love, offering a heartfelt look into the journeys of sexual minorities in their communities. Whether you're a believer or not, dive into their experiences and gain fresh insights into the dynamic relationship between spirituality and sexuality. Download your free copy now: https://lnkd.in/dFgNuaQ7 #LGBTIQ #SpiritualJourney #InclusiveFaith #IAM #HumanRights

Duma Boko, a human rights lawyer who’s set to become Botswana’s new president, is known for his firm support of LGBTIQ+ rights. Boko’s coalition, the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC), achieved a surprising landslide victory in last week’s elections, unseating the Botswana Democratic Party after nearly 60 years in power. Read more: https://lnkd.in/dcR3E5AB #LGBTIQ #LGBTnews #LGBTrights #lgbtcommunity

The inaugural Northern Cape Pride is set for Kimberley on 30th November 2024 at the Galeshewe Open Air Arena. This event promises a vibrant celebration of the LGBTIQ+ community, uniting individuals and allies in a shared commitment to love, acceptance, and equality. Read more: https://lnkd.in/dSEbWB53 #LGBTIQ #Pride #NorthernCape #lgbtcommunity

Leaders from across South Africa are gathering this week for a Synodical Committee Meeting of the South Africa Synod of the United Congregational Church of Southern Africa (UCCSA). The passion and courage of these leaders were tangible as we engaged in dialogue on human sexuality and gender. This is the beginning of a continuing partnership with the UCCSA for more training and dialogue sessions. One leader remarked, “My son is part of the LGBTQIA+ community, and now I can go back and truly share with my husband what I have learned. I am very grateful for the opportunity.” SA SYNOD (UCCSA)

Stay Safe While Dating Online in South Africa! Online dating has opened doors for the #LGBTIQ+ community to connect, but it also comes with risks. Criminals are increasingly targeting queer individuals on dating apps, using deceitful profiles to lure victims. These encounters can quickly turn dangerous, involving threats, physical harm, and extortion. Read the full article for more insights on staying safe! https://lnkd.in/dz6Jvvqp

ILGA World has withdrawn an Israeli organisation's bid to host the 2026 World Conference in Tel Aviv, citing concerns over human rights issues in Palestine. The decision came after feedback from members and consultation with local hosts in South Africa. This move aligns with ILGA's commitment to uphold universal human rights and inclusivity. The upcoming conference in Cape Town will welcome activists from over 100 countries to discuss global LGBTIQ+ rights. Read more: https://lnkd.in/db_HzrSD #LGBTIQ #LGBTIQnews #humanrights #lgbtcommunity

A historic milestone in the journey for LGBTQIA+ recognition! The first-ever Proudly Conference of the Methodist Church of Southern Africa (MCSA) brought together LGBTQIA+ individuals, clergy, and allies in a powerful celebration of inclusion, healing, and hope. Hosted by the LGBTQIA Connexional Task Team, this three-day event was filled with stories of resilience and the shared vision for an inclusive church. Former Presiding Bishop Rev. Purity Malinga inspired attendees, reminding us that while full recognition is “imminent but not fully realized,” true freedom is within reach. Together, we move forward in the spirit of justice, inclusivity, and love. Read more: https://lnkd.in/d2zUChuE #ProudlyMCSA #LGBTIQ #inclusivity #faith

A historic milestone in the journey for LGBTQIA+ recognition! The first-ever Proudly Conference of Methodist Church of Southern Africa (MCSA) brought together LGBTQIA+ individuals, clergy, and allies in a powerful celebration of inclusion, healing, and hope. Hosted by the LGBTQIA Connexional Task Team, this three-day event was filled with stories of resilience and the shared vision for an inclusive church. Former Presiding Bishop Rev. Purity Malinga inspired attendees, reminding us that while full recognition is “imminent but not fully realized,” true freedom is within reach. Together, we move forward in the spirit of justice, inclusivity, and love. Read more: https://lnkd.in/d2zUChuE #ProudlyMCSA #LGBTIQ #inclusivity #faith

Greetings from Cape Town! IAM has had a powerful couple of months, championing LGBTI inclusion and celebrating diverse voices in faith spaces. Highlights include the historic Proudly Queer Conference with the Methodist Church, a wellness retreat for Life Orientation teachers, and our youth capacity training programme. We’re excited to continue this journey with you! Curious for more? Follow the link to read our full October Monthly Update: https://lnkd.in/d7thJpNd #IAMMonthlyUpdate #InclusiveFaith #LGBTIAdvocacy #FaithAndJustice #LGBTIQ

OUT LGBT Well-being launched its We Remember campaign at Saturday’s Johannesburg Pride march to raise awareness of the disturbing number of deadly attacks against #LGBTIQ+ people in South Africa. Read more: https://lnkd.in/d6f7yjQC