The origin of this work is inspired by the legacy of Affirm United/S'affirmer Ensemble, an organization that works for the full inclusion of people of all sexual orientations and gender identities in the United Church of Canada and in society. Affirm United leads the Affirming Ministries Program. The Affirming Ministries Program is a network of primarily United Church ministries that declare themselves to be fully inclusive of people of all sexual orientations and gender identities. You don’t have to be United Church to take part, though!

Affirming Connections doesn't duplicate the work of Affirm United, they are awesome enough! (If you want to pursue becoming an Affirming Ministry and wonder why it matters, you can read their super helpful info sheet here.) 

Rather, our work is to be on the ground here in Central and Southern Alberta (and elsewhere when possible) to support existing Affirming Ministries in living out their active affirming work, provide those who are in process some partnership opportunities, give a signal boost to positive events and people, and to be in the public and political square, advocating alongside values-aligned community organizations to further the message of radical love and inclusivity. 

This initiative is only possible because so many people of faith believe wholeheartedly in the full equality of all people to be able to access the spirituality that resonates with them, and to be celebrated, not just tolerated. The scope is large and this is an evolving adventure where we are breaking ground. Our ultimate goal is that all 2SLGBTQIA+ people can access the personal and spiritual resources that they deserve; to be able to belong to an Affirming faith community if they desire, and to know they are deeply and truly loved, as they are.

If you'd like to get involved in what we're doing, as an individual or organization, contact our Director or Program Coordinator here!