What it looks and feels like to be…
Unapologetically Inclusive
Some of our NEWEST responses
“I would say without exception…any and all are welcomed and appreciated and loved that walk through these doors.”
— Cami S.
“To me this means that ALL people are welcome to attend on Sundays and any events that are held. By having so many different viewpoints, it makes all of us better. If only our country practiced this!"
— Mike H.
“A spiritual community that is unapologetically inclusive would be actively engaged in having conversations that were not popular or even politically correct. They would educate people so that the walls of ignorance would crumble down and create more pathways to connections.”
— Deb. P.
“A spiritual community that is unapologetically inclusive would display signage, such as for BLM and LGBTQ. Discussion groups and activities would reflect inclusivity. The feel of the community would be compassionate curiosity and genuine acceptance. Forums for informative discussion on related topics could be given. Having lots of small group seating would be helpful.
Truth seekers from all of the world's religions would know they were welcome, in part because the signage and decor of the facilities would be identified ‘religion inclusive' or ‘world religion neutral.’”
— Marti R.
“We would have music from all different religions/ spiritualities. Everyone would be encouraged to use their special skill to help create a service.”
— Jo Ann P.
“Being welcoming is a start. Welcoming those who are different into our churches and schools and businesses with sincerity goes a long way toward inclusivity. But it has been my experience as a black woman that there is so much insincerity. You can hear people trying to be "nice". And you can hear yourself trying to be receptive to their niceness..”
— Michaelle W.
“To be inclusive is to put ourselves in others shoes and act accordingly.”
— Rich M.
“…being inclusive means accepting everyone…and…take it a step further. Get to know someone more who is different from you in any way. There are so many rich things we can learn from those of different cultures, sexual preferences and gender. Learn about the struggles others have experienced and how they have overcome them and still might be working on them. Try to put yourself in their shoes and share ideas - be a support to them in as many ways as you can be.”
— Denise W.
“A community that is inclusive would be made up of all types of people: white, black Asians, Latinos etc. It would show respect to outstanding values of each culture. There will be billboards along the streets and freeways showing appreciation for all people.”
— Anne L.
“An unapologetically inclusive spiritual community would be inclusive of all people across a broad intersection of identities. Facilities would be accessible to those with disability. Livestreams of services would either have ASL interpreters or closed caption options. These features would be front and center, and just not for show or "political correctness."
— Elaine N.
“A spiritual community that is unapologetically inclusive would be actively engaged in having conversations that were not popular or even politically correct. They would educate people so that the walls of ignorance would crumble down and create more pathways to connections.”
— Ahmondra M.
“I would say for me this would look like more inclusive of other spiritual holidays and practices, specifically Pagan. Historical influences and interconnections within mainstream religions.”
— Kayla W.
“By being true to our word, all are welcome here. I know that is said every Sunday in church, but it is reaching out into the community that will make guests feel more welcome. What can we do and how can we serve others in the community. How can we serve the homeless in our communities? I keep backpacks in my car that are packed with things like clean, socks, hygiene, necessities, etc. also some food and water.”
— Debra K.
“…the way to invite in all groups is to provide what all groups need. This means all communities, and all social levels – rich, poor, middle of the road, any political party, all age group, any gender, race, or religion.”
— Kate G.
“… this means that ALL people are welcome to attend on Sundays and any events that are held. By having so many different viewpoints, it makes all of us better. If only our country practiced this!“
— Michael H.