The UPLIFT chapter at Bellingham Unitarian Fellowship (BUF) invites us to a six-session course on "Transgender Inclusion in Congregations." UPLIFT is a national religious organization of the Unitarian Universalist Association, supporting and advocating for LGBTQIA+ people. We work to ensure that our congregation welcomes and incorporates queer people in all aspects of congregational life, and we work to improve the lives of LGBTQIA+ people in Whatcom County.
This course at BUF in May on will provide in-depth knowledge and skills to take us to the next level in terms of trans identity, and how to create congregations that are fully inclusive and affirming of the full breadth of gender diversity. Over six sessions we will deeply explore the intersection of trans identity, spirituality, and faith community, and gain the grounding, context, and skills to transform ourselves and our congregations.
This course is for everyone from novices on trans identity to those with decades of life experience. Congregational teams are particularly encouraged to participate. Rather than simply offering a “trans 101” experience, this class pushes participants to the next level of congregational welcome, relationship-building, and skills-building. It counters mainstream narratives about who trans people are; supports understanding of non-binary identities (such as genderqueer, agender, and Two-Spirit); and employs a deeply intersectional approach. For more information on the course, watch this informative video: https://youtu.be/tEU5Ri8lxQ4?feature=shared.
The course will run at BUF (1207 Ellsworth Street, Bellingham WA, 98225) for six consecutive Sunday afternoons from 3:00 to 5:00 pm, starting May 4 and concluding June 8. The format will be a video of approximately 45 minutes, followed by 45 to 60 minutes of facilitated discussion. A $30 donation for the combined six sessions would be welcome; scholarships are available.
To register, use this link: https://buf.breezechms.com/form/Transgender_Inclusion. Registration will also be available at the event starting at 2:30 pm.
For information or questions, contact Natalie Johnson.
