In 2016

We mourn the loss of 49 lives in Orlando, Florida and seek solutions in the face of another senseless tragedy. This week on State of Belief, Interfaith Alliance’s radio show and podcast, our host Rev. Welton Gaddy will speak with The Rt. Rev. Gene Robinson, longtime advocate for LGBT inclusivity in religious life and the first openly gay person to serve as a bishop in the Episcopal Church, about the alarming trend of dehumanizing the “other” in American politics. Catherine Boyle of Outside-In Ministries will answer questions about creating safe spaces within communities of faith for people with mental health challenges. Finally, Ilana Alazzeh, founder of Muslims Against Homophobia and LGBT Hate, joins Welton to discuss her work at the intersection of Islam and LGBT justice.

Gene Robinson on Fighting Hate in America
The divisive reactions from many quarters to the Orlando tragedy highlight the utter death of civility and mutuality in our society. Many see people they disagree with as enemies not just to be argued with, but to be destroyed. Welton tackles this disturbing trend with Bishop Gene Robinson, who faced death threats and worse as a result of his ministry as the Episcopal Church’s first openly gay bishop. Welton will get his perspective on the tragedy and how the trend of dehumanizing political opponents makes each and every one of us a target. CLICK HERE FOR EXTENDED INTERVIEW AND TRANSCRIPT

Creating Space for Mental Healing in Faith Communities
Catherine Boyle
, founder and president of Outside-In Ministries, works with communities of faith to create welcoming and supportive settings for people living with mental health challenges. Mental health is an uncomfortable topic for most of us, but Welton will talk with Catherine about getting past that stigma. She will discuss her work at Outside-In, the intersection of medical science and faith and what to do if someone you know is a threat to themselves or those around them.

American Muslims Fighting Anti-LGBT Bigotry
The tragic events in Orlando brought together two groups – Muslims and LGBT Americans – who are feared and hated by many of the same people. Ilana Alazzeh, founder of Muslims Against Homophobia and LGBT Hate, is a tireless advocate at the intersection of these groups. She will share with Welton how her group advocates for LGBT Muslims and helps find and create spaces where they can feel comfortable. She will also discuss challenges to her work, and how LGBT Muslims can connect with her organization.

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