Freedom 2 b[e]
JOIN US IN THIS YEARS MARDI GRAS PARADE AND CELEBRATE YOUR JOURNEY
Please forward this information on to others who might be interested

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and Evangelical backgrounds) celebrates the journey survivors have travelled to rid ourselves of damaging and outdated beliefs.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.


Freedom 2 b[e]
Networking GLBTIQ People from Pentecostal, Charismatic & Evangelical Backgrounds by providing:
Connection & Support - through an online community and monthly get togethers
Information - balanced information on same sex attraction from a scientific, psychological and theological perspective
Dialogue - intelligent, respectful dialogue with individuals, groups, churches or denominations to promote understanding and acceptance

Contact Info

Co-convenor Anthony Venn-Brown  Mob: 0416 015 231
[email protected]