The Importance of Dialogue

We can never underestimate the power of dialogue and discussion. For many right wing Christians, discussion only works if you agree with their world view. However, we, at the National Black Justice Coalition, and our allies and supporters believe that dialogue with the Church is a fundamental part of turning attitudes around regarding Black gay and lesbian Christians. We truly believe, "Come and let us reason together!". With discussion and reason, we begin to peel off layers of assumption, stereotypes and misinformation. We begin to reveal the inherent human dignity that we all share. We defeat the rampant demonization of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender Christians. And we build bridges of understanding which can stand the test of time.

Last weekend's Black Church Summit did just that. Along with affirmative voices, we made sure that anti gay Christians got their turn to express their opinion. Bishop Harry Jackson, Jr. of the High Impact Leadership Coalition was a featured debater along with Bishop Yvette Flunder of the United Church of Christ in our dialogue about homosexuality, the Black Church and Black folks. Through this spirited dialogue, Bishop Jackson not only voiced his opinions, which he says is based on his interpretation of Scripture, but he also admitted there is alot he does not know about gay and lesbian people. He admitted a knowledge gap. And with that, the dialogue truly begins. Cutting through the Focus on the Family talking points, Bishop Jackson was able to admit that he might be wrong about gay and lesbian people. This is a first step toward healing our community and building bridges of understanding. Of course at some point, he returned to the lame talking points, which are based on misinformation, outdated theology and questionable science. Bishop Flunder approached Bishop Jackson with compassion, extraordinary grace and pertinent information. She advocated a non punitive dialogue about sexuality in the Black Church. We wholeheartedly agree. The Black Church needs to take the lid off sexuality, discussing it without judgment but with candor. Only then can we begin to heal.

The Black Church Summit was a breathtaking display of Black theology coupled with deep compassion and reverence. We believe that conversation is the primary way to touch the hearts and minds of our fellow believers in the Black Church. And we know that with diligence, perseverance and Providence we will realize full and radical affirmation and inclusion of Black gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender Christians in the Black Church. We are all children of God and we walk in that light, embracing all of who we are and all of who God demands us to be- walking in the light of our truth.......all of our truths.