The goal, in fact, is PIE everyone. Because there's no place for non-affirming institutions in our world. Yup, that ship has sailed.
PIE Day is March 14th.
There's no longer a place for institutions that don't affirm diversity and inclusion. Societal progress demands embracing all individuals, regardless of their identity.
What is PIE?
PIE = The Public, Intentional and Explicit inclusion of 2SLGBTQIA+ People
So this isn’t about quiet acceptance. This is clear, definitive action and conduct.
PIE represents a powerful commitment to fostering truly affirming, welcoming, and inclusive environments. By adhering to these principles, institutions ensure that their efforts to support LGBTQIA and Two-Spirit communities are visible, deliberate, and unequivocal.
Public = Being out and proud! Especially in religious contexts, it's not the norm for queer folks to truly know and feel that they will be embraced exactly as they are.
Intentional = Putting thought and resources into action! Many people and groups, the church included, assume that gender and sexual diversity are now fully accepted, so “special” efforts are no longer needed. Sadly, this isn’t true. Not yet. Indeed, society has come a long way, but there is a long way to go, and churches have inherited centuries of transphobic and homophobic oppression carried out in the name of God or the Gospel. Embracing PIE means investing time into planning, programming, and resources that demonstrate inclusion. Affirming people and churches are still a minority, and that minority needs to express radical love with intention.
Explicit = Not Having to Wonder! Church should be a place of wonder, not a place where you have to wonder whether you will belong or not. This is why explicitly naming and Affirming queerness and queer folks is so important. There is a power in a name, especially when LGBTQIA+ names have for centuries been used as insults, and Two-Spirit identities have been violently oppressed and suppressed by Christianity and colonization.
This approach goes beyond passive acceptance; it embodies active and definitive actions that promote a culture of understanding and respect.
By embracing PIE principles, institutions can create safe spaces where all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, feel valued, respected, and supported. As we well know, such a dedication to inclusivity not only benefits the marginalized communities but also strengthens the overall sense of belonging and unity within our broader society. Seems like a no-brainer to me!
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