If we are to be faithful to the Gospel, we must welcome LGBTQ+ people not in spite of our faith, but because of it. Love—real love—is always expansive, always inclusive.
— Sr. Jeannine Gramick, SL
Pride
Each June, during Pride Month, we join in honoring the sacred worth and dignity of our LGBTQ+ siblings. Pride is a celebration of love, identity and resilience. It is also a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for equity, safety and belonging. LGBTQ+ individuals—especially transgender and nonbinary people and LGBTQ+ people of color—continue to face violence, discrimination and rejection.
Guided by the Gospel and our justice, peace and inclusion values, we commit ourselves to walk alongside LGBTQ+ people with love and respect. This means creating communities that are not only welcoming but also actively affirming. It means examining our institutions, our language and our assumptions. It means advocating for policies and practices that protect the rights and dignity of all people, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation. We invite you to deepen your understanding, broaden your compassion, and take concrete steps in solidarity with LGBTQ+ people.
Explore these organizations offering powerful tools to help individuals and faith communities walk alongside LGBTQ+ people with love and justice:
- DignityUSA – Catholic voices advocating for justice, equality and full inclusion of LGBTQ+ people in the Church and society.
- New Ways Ministry – A Catholic organization fostering respectful dialogue and inclusive pastoral care for LGBTQ+ individuals.
- GLAAD Resource List – A user-friendly glossary and library of resources for understanding LGBTQ+ identities and practicing respectful allyship.
- The Trevor Project – Lifesaving crisis intervention and educational tools supporting LGBTQ+ youth.
- PFLAG – A national organization offering support, education and advocacy for LGBTQ+ people and their families.
- Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Foundation – A wide range of educational materials and advocacy initiatives promoting LGBTQ+ rights and equity.
This Pride Month, let’s welcome those pushed to the margins. Together, we can help create a world where everyone feels at home, respected and deeply valued.
Did you know?
Mark your calendar and bring your spirit of joy and justice – Monroe County Pride 2025 is happening this Saturday, June 28, from 1 to 7 p.m. at St. Mary’s Park (111 W. Elm Avenue). Now celebrating its fifth year, Monroe County Pride is a vibrant celebration of LGBTQ+ lives, love and community. Here’s what to look forward to:
- Food trucks, family-friendly activities and community resource tables – a welcoming space for all ages.
- Drag performances full of sparkle and energy, including the Drag Pageant at the River Raisin Centre for the Arts Friday, June 27, at 7 p.m. Get your tickets here.
- A bustling art market and local vendor booths featuring crafts, pride gear and handmade treasures.
- Food trucks, family-friendly activities and community resource tables – a welcoming space for all ages.
You may find the IHM Justice, Peace and Sustainability Office’s web materials useful for your committee work, presentations, mission units, ministry and other educational purposes. Be sure to check out our regularly updated online resources HERE.