Bridging the Gap

[tdogg]

I'm involved in a faith outreach group, connected to Equality Action Now. We are working to bridge the gap between our community (GLBT) and 'religion'. The actions we are taking are threefold: being trained to assist churches to give a course on accepting GLBT and marriage equality (to train the 'trainers') - Living Lovingly (you can Google for the link); to serve on discussion panels during the training sessions; and to participate in dinner conversations of equality (Food For Thought). I'm sure there are other areas we will get into, but for now this is our focus.

While the effort is basically in CA for now (in anticipation of our bringing forward a marriage equality initiative), I'm certain the benefits would be widespread if we went nationwide. Maybe eventually. Being involved means listening to the other side, not reacting, and continuing dialogue in a decent and open manner. We are trying to change hearts and minds, not engaging in conflict. That's going to be pretty difficult but I'm up for the challenge.

Any suggestions are welcome! How do I armor myself against the pain of comments? I'm sure we'll have some ground rules for starters, but that won't carry us all the way. I'm excited, and just a little nervous, but ready to get going. We are having our initial training on Jan. 31st.

We are also looking for any volunteers who might be interested in the above actions to join our group. This would probably limit possible volunteers to northern CA for now. Just send me a PM if you want more information. Meanwhile, we are nearly ready to launch this plan and open dialogue with churches. 5-7 moderate congregations for starters, and looking at a mass mailing to all churches, city by city in No. CA, hopefully by February.

[Rick336]

Originally Posted by tdogg

I'm involved in a faith outreach group, connected to Equality Action Now. We are working to bridge the gap between our community (GLBT) and 'religion'. The actions we are taking are threefold: being trained to assist churches to give a course on accepting GLBT and marriage equality (to train the 'trainers') - Living Lovingly (you can Google for the link); to serve on discussion panels during the training sessions; and to participate in dinner conversations of equality (Food For Thought). I'm sure there are other areas we will get into, but for now this is our focus.

I think meeting face to face with people in an effort to educate is a great idea. So many people are segregated from our community and have no idea who we really are and what we want in our fight for equality.

Right on!!

Rick