Is the Church Welcomed at Pride Parades as Part of Institutional Apologies

The question of whether institutional apologies, especially from religious organisations, should be part of Pride parades is a nuanced issue. Pride events have historically been founded in protest and advocacy, symbolizing the fight against discrimination and the quest for LGBTQ+ rights. They are spaces where the community unites to celebrate resilience and call for meaningful change.

The Anglican Church of Southern Queensland’s planned apology at Brisbane Pride 2024 on September 21 adds depth to this debate. The Church, which has faced substantial criticism for its historical stance on LGBTQ+ issues, is making a significant gesture with this formal apology at the Pride rally. This raises important questions about whether it is appropriate for such an apology to be made in this setting.

Pride parades are not merely celebratory; they are acts of activism and resistance, providing a platform for marginalised voices and challenging systemic oppression. When institutions like the Church, which have historically been seen as antagonistic towards LGBTQ+ rights, seek to make amends at these events, it can seem like an attempt to co-opt or diminish the very space created to fight against institutionalised discrimination.

In this context, LGBTQ+ individuals deserve not just apologies but genuine inclusion and support. Their marriages should be recognised by the Church, and queer individuals should be welcomed into ministry, irrespective of their relationships. Yet, it seems that the Anglican Church’s acceptance is still limited. If Jesus were here today, he might overturn the Anglican VIP table with even more fervour. If the Church's participation in events like Brisbane Pride does not come with a sincere commitment to fully affirm and include all LGBTQ+ individuals, it may be worth reconsidering their involvement. An apology that says, “We’re sorry, but you’re still not welcome,” falls significantly short of what is truly needed.

However, it's important to consider the potentially triggering nature of such a message at the event. Pride is a time for celebration, unity, and healing for many in the LGBTQ+ community. The presence of an institution that has historically been a source of pain and exclusion could evoke strong emotional reactions and revolt. An apology, while necessary, must be approached with sensitivity and a genuine commitment to listening and acting on the concerns of the community. The Church must ensure that its actions do not overshadow the voices of those it seeks to reconcile with, but rather amplify and support them in a meaningful way.

Who will rise for our community and declare that mere tolerance is not enough, even as some of our own, funded by the church, advocate for this apology at our festival? How much is the church donating to Brisbane Pride? Does anyone take these events seriously anymore, since Sydney Mardi Gras surrendered to corporate interests? 

Will the Anglican Church in Queensland invite our community to be part of the change we seek? Will it challenge the barriers and respect our marriages? Words alone aren’t enough anymore. Will the church join us in dismantling exclusion and prejudice? Will it honour our marriages and include our voices in its ministry? Or will it remain silent, upholding the very systems we aim to dismantle? The call for action is clear—will the church respond with meaningful change or retreat into empty promises, pews and inaction?

Image Title: "Cheap Grace" Source: Midjourney’s image generation model.

Editor's Note: This story has been revised 6/8/24 after discussions with LGBT+ elders in the community and updated to reflect a more conciliatory tone.