This piece discusses 6 practical ways we can move toward that justice and full inclusion, specifically for disabled community members (see if you can spot some similarities between this model of disability justice and LGBTQ+ justice in churches!).

Church environments can cause significant harm to LGBTQ+ people and disabled people by not constructing inclusive practices, processes, and physical spaces.

So how are we to fight for full inclusion for these communities in the church?

The theme colors for this first week of pride are red and orange. Red symbolizes passion and life, the powerful energy and determination of LGBTQ+ activists throughout history.

Remember this rainbow day.

Look around, and see how LGBTQ+ people found a way to look out for each other.

Feel the energy crackling across your skin, let it sink into your memory.

Because LGBTQ+ children of God, and the allies God sent to protect us, are embodiments of resurrection.

Jesus shares these words of peace as a reassurance right before a time of violence, separation, and despair: his crucifixion on the cross. Christ knows that this time will be brutal, but he offers three words of hope amidst the impending trials and tribulations ahead.

We are in an era where those in power are trying to legislate queer people out of existence. One of the common justifications for this violence is Christianity. The United Methodist Church is taking steps towards the full inclusion and affirmation of LGBTQ+ people is a way to challenge the legitimacy of this argument.