The Open and Affirming Coalition Stands with the Collective of Queer Christian Leaders
By UCC Coalition | March 5, 2025
On this Ash Wednesday, the Open and Affirming Coalition of the United Church of Christ is proud to stand with the Collective of Queer Christian Leaders in declaring that we are here, we are resisting, and we will not be erased.
Alongside faith-based organizations committed to LGBTQ+ justice, the Coalition helped develop and has signed onto a powerful statement addressing the ongoing attacks on our communities. As people of faith, we cannot stay silent in the face of policies and rhetoric that seek to erase transgender and nonbinary people, strip away fundamental rights, and dismantle the safety nets that protect our most vulnerable neighbors.
The statement, released today, affirms our unwavering belief that queer and trans people are not only beloved by God but are integral to the fabric of our faith communities. It calls out the white Christian nationalist agenda attempting to weaponize Christianity against marginalized people and reminds us that the gospel is one of radical inclusion, justice, and liberation.
Click here to Read the full statement
Click here to Read the Full Religion News Service Article
As the statement declares:
“We can’t mince words about what’s happening here: we are under attack. But you are not alone, and you are not forgotten—not by our God, and not by us.”
The Open and Affirming Coalition remains steadfast in our commitment to LGBTQ+ justice, knowing that our faith calls us to resist oppression in all its forms. Our work is far from over, and we invite you to stand with us.
In the days following Palm Sunday, an action is being planned in Washington, DC to amplify the voices of those impacted and to call for justice. We will share more details soon on how our communities can participate.
As we enter this Lenten season—a time of reflection and preparation—we do so with the understanding that resistance is also a spiritual practice. Together, we lament, we fight, and we build a future where all are truly free.
#QueerChristianLeaders #ONA #LGBTQJustice #AshWednesday #FaithInAction
