Pride and the Power of "Amen": Embracing Radical Acceptance for a More Inclusive World

As the vibrant hues of Pride Month paint the world in a rainbow of inclusivity, today's celebration at the Gold Coast Pride Festival served not only as a jubilant expression of identity but also as a poignant reminder of the importance of reaching out to those on the fringes of society. Amidst the lively festivities, I found myself drawn to various community groups and sponsors, each contributing to the tapestry of acceptance and understanding.

Caught up in the spirit of unity and celebration, I had the privilege of conversing with representatives from diverse backgrounds, including the Rainbow Labour Team, MinterEllison, LGBTI Legal Service, and the Uniting Church. Their presence underscored the significance of collective action in fostering a more inclusive society, where everyone is seen, heard, and valued.

Rainbow Labor Queensland
Source: Qnews - Gold Coast Pride Festival returns to Surfers Paradise

Reflecting on the words of Rabbi Sharon Brous in her recent article in the New York Times "Train Yourself to Always Show Up", I am reminded of the practice described in the Mishnah. The ritual pilgrimage to Jerusalem, with its symbolic gestures of solidarity and empathy, offers profound insights into the human condition. In times of sorrow and despair, the act of showing up, of entrusting one's pain to the community, becomes a beacon of hope amidst the darkness.

Brous's emphasis on the importance of curiosity in combating tribalism strikes a chord in today's world, where divisions often overshadow our common humanity. As we navigate the complexities of identity and belonging, it becomes imperative to cultivate empathy and understanding, to ask ourselves, "What happened to you?" and to listen with open hearts.

The notion of inclusivity extends beyond mere tolerance; it encompasses a radical acceptance of every individual, even those who may have caused harm or hold views contrary to our own. In embracing the "amen effect" (Brous, 2024) we embark on a spiritual journey of reconciliation and healing, where genuine encounters pave the way for transformative connections.

Amidst the glittering spectacle of Pride, let us not forget the essence of compassion and solidarity. Let us heed Rabbi Brous's call to show up for one another, to bridge the divides that threaten to tear us apart. In the embrace of diversity lies our collective strength, our shared humanity shining bright like a beacon of hope in an often tumultuous world.

Citations
Brous, S. (2024) Train yourself to always show up, The New York Times. Available at: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/01/19/opinion/religion-ancient-text-judaism.html (Accessed: 01 June 2024).