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Affirming Trans and Nonbinary Lives: A Call to Love, Justice, and Action

By UCC Coalition | January 22, 2025

We See You. We Love You. We Affirm You.

In a world where policies and rhetoric are increasingly aimed at erasing the existence of transgender and nonbinary people, the Open and Affirming Coalition of the United Church of Christ stands resolute in its commitment to affirming the dignity, worth, and sacredness of every individual. The recent executive order denying the existence of trans and nonbinary Americans is not only a legal and political assault but a moral and spiritual one. It challenges the very fabric of what it means to love our neighbors as ourselves.

As Christians, we are called to stand against systems of oppression and to live out the radical, inclusive love of Christ. Our faith teaches us that all people are created in the image of God—beautiful, diverse, and worthy of love. Denying someone’s identity is denying the divine imprint on their lives.

To Our Trans and Nonbinary Siblings:

We see you. We love you. We affirm you.

You are not alone in this fight. Your existence is holy, and your truth is powerful. The attacks on your identity are unjust and cruel, but we are here to stand with you. You belong in our churches, in our communities, and in every space where love and justice are proclaimed. You are essential, and your lives are sacred. We will continue to fight alongside you for a world where you are not merely tolerated but celebrated.

To Our Churches:

Now is the time to live out our faith boldly. The Gospel compels us to act in the face of injustice and to create spaces where love and inclusion reign. As Open and Affirming churches, we are called to be sanctuaries for all people, especially those who are marginalized.

Let us recommit ourselves to being both safe and brave spaces for trans and nonbinary people. Safe spaces are where individuals are free from harm, and brave spaces are where their truths can be spoken, affirmed, and celebrated. This is the work of the Church—to embody Christ’s love in ways that are transformative and liberating.

Why This Matters:

The recent actions of the federal government are not isolated incidents. They are part of a broader strategy to strip away the rights and humanity of LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly transgender and nonbinary people. These policies not only endanger lives but also undermine the core values of justice, equality, and compassion that should guide our nation.

We must speak truth to power and stand in solidarity with those who are being targeted. Trans and nonbinary people have always existed and will always exist. Their lives are a testament to resilience and the boundless diversity of God’s creation.

A Call to Action:

To our allies and church communities: this is your moment to act. Use your platforms, your voices, and your resources to make it known that trans and nonbinary people are loved and affirmed. Share messages of solidarity. Challenge harmful narratives. Advocate for policies that protect and uplift trans lives.

We invite you to share this message and the graphic accompanying it on your social media platforms. Let the world know that your faith compels you to stand for justice, inclusion, and love.

Together, we can build a world where everyone, regardless of gender identity, is embraced as a beloved child of God. Let us rise to this moment with courage, compassion, and unwavering faith.

Repost this graphic to show your solidarity and remind the world that our faith compels us to affirm that trans and nonbinary people are sacred, loved, and here to stay.