For three days – January 31st to February 2nd 2024, B Hotel in Quezon City witnessed a landmark event: “Faith Seeking Equality and Common Good: Bridging Sexuality and Gender, Christianity, and SOGIESC Rights.”
Organized by Open Table MCC and Humanis (Hivos), under the Free To Be Me Project, the event brought together members of the LGBTQIA+ community and representatives from various church denominations in a spirit of unity and understanding.
The Philippines, a nation with a predominantly Catholic population, has grappled with complex issues surrounding LGBTQIA+ rights and acceptance within religious communities. This event aimed to bridge those divides, fostering dialogue and promoting love, equal rights, and justice for all.
Throughout the three days, participants engaged in workshops, discussions, and reflections, exploring the intersections of faith, sexuality, and gender identity. Keynote speakers, including religious leaders and LGBTQIA+ activists, shared their perspectives and experiences, challenging traditional interpretations and advocating for a more inclusive understanding of faith.
One of the event’s highlights was the participation of representatives from various Christian denominations, demonstrating a growing openness within religious communities to engage with LGBTQIA+ issues. Open Table MCC, a church community under the Metropolitan Community Church denomination known for its welcoming embrace of the LGBTQIA+ community, played a pivotal role in facilitating these dialogues.
