Take some time and learn more about LGBTQ people, especially those in your local community. It is important to understand the joys and challenges that the community experiences beyond the stereotypes. Recognize that there are people of all sexual orientations and gender identities in every racial and cultural group.
Do some investigation:
- Find and explore a local website or newspaper that focuses on the LGBTQ community.
- Ask yourself what are the key issues that queer people are concerned about?
- What queer groups are active in your neighborhood?
- What events do LGBTQ people in your community mark or celebrate?
- Are there other communities of faith that support LGBTQ people?
- How might your community of faith be of support?
You may also want to do a web search for the name of your town or area with terms related to being LGBTQ.
- What organizations are out there?
- Are there many resources of LGBTQ people in your area or just a few, if any?
- What support exists for parents, spouses, siblings, teens, children, and/or friends?
- What do you think it would be like to come out where you are?
- Is your area a very supportive one or someplace where it might be hard or dangerous to come out as LGBTQ? If so, how might your community of faith help to change this?
For now, we suggest doing the research. We’ll have more ideas about what do with the information you gather in the coming weeks.