As a queer, nonbinary millennial, you might be surprised to learn that the church is central to my politics. White Christian nationalism and right-wing evangelical ideology and theology have taken hold in this country, and progressive people of faith have remained quiet in our organizing on behalf of a more just and loving world. Embarrassed to lead with the language of faith which has been co-opted by those who preach hatred, we work for justice in the secular sphere and keep our faith to ourselves.

This is a mistake. The progressive church is central to saving democracy and bringing about the Beloved Community in our everyday lives. At my church, we write letters to voters and organize for gun safety; we offer comprehensive sexuality education to our children so they learn to say “no” and understand that they are in charge of their own bodies. We have hard conversations on difference and stay in relationship when we disagree. We think about how power operates in our communities, about systems of oppression. We read banned books and celebrate queerness. We sing of justice and peace for all.

We gather as agnostics, Buddhists, Jews, atheists, humanists and spiritual seekers under the umbrella of Unitarian Universalism, and hold dear the core values of justice, equity, transformation, pluralism, generosity and interdependence with love at the center. We do it in community. The religious right is strong, but if we speak up, if we rise up, I believe the religious left can be stronger.

Tara Humphries
Portland