People who are same-sex-orientated often feel societal
and family pressures to reject or deny their true feelings. This
pressure to conform and live as heterosexuals is much more intense for those
who come from faith backgrounds and Christian churches, as the belief
system says that acceptance or rejection of their sexuality has eternal
consequences.
Struggling to change can be private and internal, through
one on one personal counselling or support groups. Some of us have even gone to the extremes of exorcisms, 'ex-gay'
programs or marrying, believing this will solve our 'problem'. The journey
to find resolution and self-acceptance for gay men and lesbians from Christian
backgrounds can be difficult and even traumatic.
This year, Freedom
2 b[e] (a network of people from Pentecostal, Charismatic and Evangelical
backgrounds) celebrates the journey
survivors have travelled to rid ourselves of damaging and outdated beliefs. Beliefs
that said homosexuality was a sin, sickness or the result of a dysfunctional
family upbringing. We are no longer victims of our own or others ignorance.
We invite all those who have been through any form of 'ex-gay' therapy
or counselling to join Freedom 2 b[e] this year in the parade. Supportive family members and friends are welcome to join us.
Marching in the Mardi Gras parade or a Pride march
is often an empowering experience
and an opportunity to put the shame and the 'demons' of the past to rest by publicly declaring that we are out, proud
and love being who we are; lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender.
Our message is a positive one; celebrating our journeys to resolution and
self-acceptance. By marching together we
also send a positive message to people in churches who are still locked in a
prison of self-hatred.
Accepting our sexuality, coming out in a supportive
environment and embracing being gay or lesbian, sets us free.
If you are interesting in marching with us as a
survivor or supporter please register your interest now as numbers are limited.
More details and to register your
interest click here
If you have been through an ex-gay
program and would like more information please email [email protected].
General inquiries please email [email protected]
Unsure about the importance of
participating in the parade? These articles may be helpful.
1.
Parades
- who needs them?
2.
The
First Time Freedom 2 b[e] Marched in Mardi Gras - What happened?
3.
Read about the experience of some
first timers
Please note: In order to meet the requirements of the Mardi
Gras organisation so the logistics of the 8,000 strong parade can be
finalised......and in order for Freedom 2 b[e] to organise t-shirts and other
articles for every participant, all registrations must be in by Friday 12
February 2010. DON'T PUT IT OFF OR YOU'LL MISS OUT. Thanks for your help. |